Los Blancos would have a difficult time replacing the superstar but would be able to field a strong lineup without him
How might Real Madrid line up without Cristiano Ronaldo?
A week ago that seemed like a question that would not be asked for some time. But now with rumours of the Portugal star demanding his exit from the Bernabeu, it’s something that has to be considered.
While replacing a player like Ronaldo, who alongside Lionel Messi has an argument to be considered the best in the world, would be near impossible, you would be hard-pressed to find a side more capable of it than Real Madrid.
The team’s base would likely remain intact, with the midfield trio of Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Casemiro providing indispensable support for the attacking trio.
Up top, Karim Benzema would likely retain his place. Despite questions about his role on the side, he continued to perform well as the centre-forward this season.
Meanwhile, Isco, who came into the side for an injured Gareth Bale toward the end of the year, impressed with his ability to drive play for Benzema and Ronaldo. At the same time, Ronaldo, whose role involved him playing further inside rather than on the wings, could see his spot taken by Bale.
At the very least, that would help solve the issue of what to do with Isco, who proved himself worthy of a place in the lineup with his performance at the end of the year for Madrid.
As for who from outside the club could step in for Ronaldo, the possibilities are endless. The money Madrid would bring in from the transfer itself — his release clause reportedly stands at €1 billion — and freeing up Ronaldo’s wages would be astronomical, and could probably entice most players into joining if the club so chose.
But one intriguing option could be French teenage prodigy Kylian Mbappe. Could he slot into Ronaldo's old position, forcing either Bale or Isco back to the bench? Here is one possibility:
Roma have joined Serie A rivals Inter in the hunt for Manchester United full-back Matteo Darmian, according to Corriere dello Sport.
Manchester City have been in contact with Cristiano Ronaldo after learning that he is looking to leave Real Madrid, reports Don Balon.
Barcelona have opened talks with Paris Saint-Germain regarding a possible deal for Marco Verratti, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.
Paris Saint-Germain have already held talks with Cristiano Ronaldo's agent regarding a possible summer transfer, claims the Daily Mail.
Cristiano Ronaldo's agent Jorge Mendes has told Real Madrid that the attacker has offers from Premier League clubs, according to Cope.
