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Real Madrid are assembling a fearsome squad as they chase higher skies in the upcoming season. Carlo Ancelotti has achieved tremendous success in his second stint with the club but remains hungry for further glory.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos officially presented Kylian Mbappe to fans on Tuesday at the Santiago Bernabeu. Elsewhere, the Spanish champions have retained their interest in Alphonso Davies.
On that note, let's look at the major Real Madrid transfer stories from July 17, 2024.
Real Madrid unveil Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe is officially a Real Madrid player following his presentation at a packed Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday. The French superstar completed his long-awaited move this summer following the expiry of his contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).
Los Blancos have had their eyes on the 25-year-old for a while, and have failed twice previously to secure his services. However, lady luck was on their side this summer as the transfer finally materialized.
Speaking at the occasion, as cited by Madrid Universal, Mbappe revealed that he has always dreamt of playing for the La Liga champions.
“Good morning everyone. Wow, it’s amazing to be here. I’ve been dreaming of playing for Real Madrid for many years. I’m a very happy guy today. Very happy. I want to thank president Florentino Perez and all the people who have allowed me to be here,” said Mbappe.
He continued:
“To my family, who are very happy. I see my mum, crying…. (pauses and kisses his crest). It’s an incredible, incredible day. Since I was a child I had the dream of playing and it means a lot. I want to thank all the Madridistas. For many years they have given me a lot of love. Thank you.”
Mbappe also vowed to give his all for Real Madrid.
“I now hope to live up to this club, the best in the world. I’m going to give my life for this club and this crest. I want to (chant again)… give a message to the children, I see a lot of them,” said Mbappe.
He concluded:
“I had a dream and today I am fulfilling it. I have just one piece of advice: with passion you can achieve whatever you want. I am very excited, it means a lot to me to be here. I am very happy to be part of the club of my dreams and the biggest club in the history of football.”
Mbappe has been handed the No. 9 jersey at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Los Blancos retain Alphonso Davies interest
Real Madrid have retained their interest in Alphonso Davies, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Canadian speedster is a long-term target for the La Liga champions, who see him as the ideal candidate for their left-back position.
Although Carlo Ancelotti is happy with Ferland Mendy, Davies represents a best-in-class option who can instantly improve the team. The 23-year-old is in the final year of his contract with Bayern Munich and hasn't signed a new deal yet.
Los Blancos had temporarily put the move on hold owing to the ongoing Copa America, where Davies reached the semifinals with his nation. With the tournament now over, Real Madrid have stepped up their plans to get the player to the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Bavarians reportedly want him to stay, but have struggled to tie him down to an extension. They are apparently open to his departure now, but will only consider a deal for €50m. Los Blancos have no desire to match that price tag and are planning to get a deal done for less.
Real Madrid lagging behind in Leny Yoro chase
Manchester United have taken the lead in the race to sign Leny Yoro this summer, according to journalist Nabil Djellit. The French defender is among the best talents in world football at the moment and Real Madrid are eager to secure his signature.
Yoro's contract with Lille will expire in 2025 and he is unlikely to sign a new deal. The Ligue 1 giants want a premium fee for their prized asset, while Los Blancos want to get a deal done at a reduced price.
The Red Devils have taken advantage of the situation and moved ahead in the chase. They have submitted an offer of €50m plus a further €12m in add-ons for the 18-year-old, which has been accepted by Lille.
The Frenchman was initially adamant that he would only consider a move to the Santiago Bernabeu. However, the Premier League giants have reportedly managed to force a crack in his resolve.
Yoro's camp are already in negotiations with Manchester United regarding the salary structure. Real Madrid now have to act quickly or they will risk losing out on a generational talent.
