Not only is Florentino Pérez in action when it comes to closing big deals for next season, with Bellingham and Rafael Leao as prime candidates, but he also has to accelerate several renewals, in the face of player risks. out of contract on their future by being free to do so from 1 January. Real Madrid rushed through many deals that were already imminent. They will be announced when the World Cup in Qatar is over, becoming real Christmas gifts for Carlo Ancelotti
The closest agreement to being official is that of Luka Modric, who agreed to stay for another season at Real Madrid, until June 30, 2024, when he will certainly announce his retirement. The Croatian is 37 years old, but he continues to perform at an incredible level. Injuries take their toll and he only needs a few games to rest to show his full quality in crucial matches
The next person to pass through Florentino Pérez’s office will be Karim Benzema, one of the spoiled sons of the Real Madrid president. The Ballon d’Or winning striker has been awarded a new contract. He has offers from France, Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique Lyonnais, but he finally decided to stay at the Santiago Bernabéu, to amplify his legend with a white uniform. Like Modric, Benzema will go year after year and does not rule out hanging up his boots at the end of the 2023/24 season, when Florentino Perez plans to sign Erling Haaland, taking advantage of the clause in his contract with Manchester City
Finally, the cherry on top, Venice, which is taking longer than expected to be replenished. The Brazilian’s explosion last season greatly increased his requests, complicating negotiations. Finally, the renewal is on track and Real Madrid plans to announce it before the end of the year
On the other side of the coin are the cases of Toni Kroos and Marco Asensio, whose contracts have expired and they still refuse Real Madrid’s proposal. The German, who until recently wanted to retire in the White Club, did not take Ancelotti’s substitutions in important matches in the last Champions League, which prompted him to think about changing the air. For now, all avenues are open, although Real Madrid are increasingly skeptical that the German will sign the renewal
An even more complicated case is that of Marco Asensio, who last summer did everything he could to change his mind. El Mallorcan did not receive the expected offer and ended up staying. Florentino Pérez continues to give him continuity by cutting his salary. Asensio is on Arsenal’s agenda, but Arteta’s team continues to not make the expected offer
