Real Madrid’s long-standing policy of monitoring the best emerging talents in European football has once again placed them in the middle of a high-profile transfer discussion.
This time, Real Madrid are interested in Jeremy Doku, a player whose pace, directness and attacking flair have made him one of the most eye-catching wide players in the Premier League.
The 23-year-old Belgian international only arrived in England recently, but his impact has been immediate. Since completing a €60m move to Manchester City, Doku has quickly adapted to the demands of English football, earning regular minutes and establishing himself as a valuable part of Pep Guardiola’s squad.
His performances have not gone unnoticed across Europe, and reports from Spain suggest Real Madrid are interested in Jeremy Doku and club president Florentino Perez is closely following his progress.
While interest from Madrid is nothing new for players excelling at the highest level, the situation surrounding Doku is far from straightforward.
Manchester City are under no pressure to sell, and any club hoping to prise him away would have to meet a significant financial demand. According to reports, that figure could exceed €120m, a price that reflects both his potential and his importance to the Premier League champions.
From Real Madrid’s perspective, the attraction is clear. Doku offers raw pace, technical quality and the ability to unsettle defenders in one-on-one situations.
These are traits Madrid have long valued, particularly in wide attackers capable of stretching defences and creating space for others. With their focus on maintaining a dynamic and youthful squad, Doku fits the profile of the type of player the club often targets.
However, the financial reality of the deal presents a major obstacle. Spending more than €120m on a single player would place Doku among the most expensive signings in football history.
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For Madrid, such an outlay is usually reserved for players who are already established global superstars or those considered transformative signings. While Doku’s talent is widely recognised, there is still debate over whether he has reached that elite bracket.
Manchester City’s stance further complicates matters. Guardiola views Doku as a key component of his tactical setup, particularly for his ability to provide width and unpredictability in attack.
The Belgian’s presence offers City an alternative attacking threat, and his development is seen as an investment in the club’s future. Allowing him to leave so soon after his arrival would not align with City’s long-term planning.
There is also the broader message such a sale would send. City remain determined to compete for the biggest honours in domestic and European football, and selling a player considered a regular starter would risk signalling weakness to their rivals.
For that reason alone, any negotiations would be expected to start from a position of strength, with City setting a price designed to deter interest as much as invite it.
Meanwhile, Manchester City are focused on maintaining momentum after recent challenges in their pursuit of major trophies. The club is eager to reassert itself at the top of English football and reclaim the Premier League title.
Achieving that goal depends heavily on squad stability and retaining key performers. Doku’s role in that plan is significant, and his continued presence is seen as essential to City’s ambitions.