Real Madrid are reportedly interested in signing Torino’s promising midfielder Samuele Ricci, should their pursuit of Jude Bellingham fall through.
According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has identified the 21-year-old as a backup option to Borussia Dortmund’s teenage sensation.
The talented Italian has been turning heads since joining Torino on a permanent deal last summer, following an initial loan spell. While Ricci hasn’t locked down a starting spot in the Torino team, he has still appeared in 24 matches across all competitions this season, chipping in a goal and an assist.
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His steady rise has caught the watchful eye of Ancelotti, who wants Los Blancos to make a move for the midfielder if they can’t land top target Bellingham.
With midfield maestros Luka Modric and Toni Kroos entering the twilight of their careers, and Dani Ceballos’ contract expiring this summer, Real Madrid are eager to strengthen their engine room.
Bellingham has emerged as their ideal signing, though recent rumours suggest the English starlet may opt to join Premier League champions Manchester City instead.
Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci on Real Madrid’s radar
Should Bellingham snub Real in favour of City, Ancelotti wants the club to turn their attention to Samuele Ricci. While the Italian is primarily a defensive midfielder, he could provide cover for Aurelien Tchouameni.
With more attack-minded midfielders Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde also at Ancelotti’s disposal, Ricci’s addition may be an astute one.
Only time will tell if Ricci becomes a leading target for Real Madrid, but with several of their long-serving midfielders nearing retirement, the next generation of talent will soon need to emerge at the Bernabeu.
The up-and-coming Ricci could prove an intriguing first signing as Los Blancos look to eventually overhaul their midfield.
