Real Madrid are reportedly huge admirers of Athletic Bilbao's Mikel Jauregizar, with Los Blancos giving serious consideration to making a move for the midfielder during this summer's transfer window.
The 21-year-old came through the youth system at Athletic, with his breakthrough season at first-team level coming last term, when he made 10 appearances in all competitions, including seven outings in Spain's top flight.
Jauregizar has been an important player for his Basque side this term, meanwhile, making 22 appearances, scoring once and providing one assist in the process, and he is believed to be on the radar of a number of major clubs.
According to Fichajes, his form 'has not gone unnoticed by Real Madrid', with the Spanish giants said to have 'closely followed his progression for some time'.
The report claims that 'several meetings' have been held to discuss the midfielder, who could have the chance to make the move to Carlo Ancelotti's side during this summer's transfer window.
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Real Madrid 'weighing up' summer move for Jauregizar
Real Madrid are expected to be in the market for at least one midfielder this summer amid suggestions that Aurelien Tchouameni could be sold, while Luka Modric's contract is also up at the end of the campaign.
Tchouameni has again been a vital player for Los Blancos this term, making 24 appearances in all competitions, but there is currently uncertainty surrounding his long-term future at Bernabeu.
Ancelotti is believed to be the 24-year-old's biggest supporter at the club, but other senior figures at Bernabeu are said to be exploring the possibility of a departure during this summer's transfer window.
Modric, meanwhile, has again been a regular, scoring twice and registering four assists in 29 appearances, but the 39-year-old is expected to depart Bernabeu this summer when his contract expires.
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Will Real Madrid make any signings in January?
Real Madrid are highly unlikely to add to their squad during the January transfer window, as the return of David Alaba will be like a new signing for the club at a vital stage of the campaign.
Alaba is back in the squad for Sunday's La Liga clash with Las Palmas and in line to make his first appearance since suffering a severe knee injury in December 2023.
"David Alaba is fine. He played 40 minutes yesterday and he lacks a bit of rhythm, but he is fine. His knee is responding very well, he will be in the squad and could have minutes tomorrow against Las Palmas, but he will not start," Ancelotti told reporters during his pre-match press conference.
Real Madrid are currently without the services of Eduardo Camavinga, Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal due to injury problems, while Vinicius Junior and Modric are both suspended for the league fixture with Las Palmas.
Matt Law
