Reports suggest that La Liga giants Real Madrid are eyeing Tijjani Reijnders as a potential replacement for Toni Kroos. The 25-year-old, who currently plays for AC Milan, has caught the attention of many with his standout performances for the Netherlands in the 2024 European Championship.
Kroos, one of the top midfielders of the century, recently retired towards the end of the 2023-24 season. The German announced his retirement following Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League final victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley Stadium on June 1. Los Blancos bid farewell to the No. 8 in style, securing their 15th European crown in England.
With Kroos no longer part of the team, Real Madrid will face a new challenge in the upcoming 2024-25 season without a player of his caliber in the midfield.
Real Madrid Eyeing Reijnders as Potential Kroos Replacement
Spanish outlet SPORT reports that Real Madrid are on the lookout for a suitable replacement for the 34-year-old Kroos, with Reijnders being a prime target. The Milan midfielder, who earned a spot in Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands squad for EURO 2024 due to Frenkie de Jong’s injury, has attracted the interest of Madrid’s technical team. While they closely monitor Reijnders, securing his signature will pose a challenge.
AC Milan acquired Reijnders from AZ Alkmaar for €20 million ($21.64 million) plus add-ons in 2023. His current contract with Milan runs until June 2028, and his market value is estimated at around €30 million ($32.47 million). Milan is reluctant to part ways with him unless presented with a significant offer.
Although Real Madrid has a good relationship with AC Milan, a potential transfer is not guaranteed. Madrid would need to make a considerable offer to have a chance at bringing the Netherlands international to their squad.
Barcelona, Real Madrid’s archrivals, have also shown interest in signing Reijnders. The player revealed that former Barcelona coach Xavi reached out to him before his move to Milan was finalized.
Reijnders’ Performance in EURO 2024
Reijnders has featured in all five matches for the Netherlands in EURO 2024 under Koeman’s leadership. The midfielder has maintained a passing accuracy of 93.7%, completing 207 passes. He has also contributed by creating two chances, winning six tackles and 14 duels, making 17 recoveries, and regaining possession three times in the opposition’s third.
Reijnders and his teammates are set to face England in the EURO 2024 semi-final on Wednesday night, promising an exciting matchup.
