Real Madrid has already released several players this summer, and more departures are expected before the transfer window closes. Recently, La Fabrica graduates Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios made moves to Fulham, and others are likely to follow them out of the Bernabeu as they do not fit into head coach Jose Mourinho’s plans.
Additionally, Thiago Pitarch could also be on his way to Fulham, while another La Fabrica midfielder potentially leaving this summer is Jorge Cestero. The 20-year-old midfielder, who made five appearances for Real Madrid last season, finds himself in a tricky position as he is deemed too skilled for Castilla but not quite ready for the first team.
Moving away from the club seems like a logical step for Cestero, and according to Matteo Moretto, he could end up in France. Lille are reportedly considering him as a replacement for Ayyoub Bouaddi, who is likely to join Manchester City as a potential successor to Real Madrid target Rodri.
A Move to Lille Could Benefit Cestero
Ligue 1 proved to be fruitful for Endrick during his loan spell at Lyon, so a transfer for Cestero to France would be seen positively by Real Madrid. Currently, no formal negotiations have taken place between clubs, but once they do, it is expected that the Bernabeu management will not impose many hurdles.
As is customary when La Fabrica talents depart, Real Madrid is likely to seek a substantial sell-on clause and/or buy-back option in any agreement regarding Cestero. This strategy allows the club to maintain some control over his future, enabling them to either reclaim him should he develop well or profit from any future sale. For the moment, it remains to be seen if Cestero will ultimately land at Lille.