Real Madrid are reportedly considering a surprising move for Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot in light of Toni Kroos’ impending retirement. Kroos, 34, will retire after Euro 2024, prompting Real Madrid to search for his successor to strengthen Carlo Ancelotti’s squad.

The club has already made significant signings this summer, including Kylian Mbappe and Endrick, but they remain active in the transfer market. They are also pursuing Lille’s Leny Yoro and Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies. Now, Rabiot has emerged as another potential addition, according to Diario AS and Mundo Deportivo.

Currently participating in Euro 2024 with the French national team, Rabiot is set to become a free agent at the end of June and has not yet accepted Juventus’ offer of a contract extension. Juventus have proposed a two-year deal with an annual salary of €7.5 million, but Rabiot has not committed, leading Real Madrid to enter the competition for his signature.

The potential departure of Kroos and the possible exit of Dani Ceballos, with Real Madrid reportedly open to offers around €35 million, highlight the need for midfield reinforcements. This situation leaves Ancelotti with Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, Luka Modric, Jude Bellingham, and Federico Valverde as his only senior midfielders, thus increasing the urgency to secure Rabiot.

Rabiot, a former Paris Saint-Germain star, has been linked with Manchester United for several years and might join them this summer as they seek a replacement for Casemiro. AC Milan is also rumored to be interested in a surprising move for Rabiot, while Aston Villa showed interest earlier this month. Unai Emery’s side, set to sell Douglas Luiz to Juventus, is looking for a suitable replacement, which might include Rabiot.

Overall, Real Madrid’s pursuit of Rabiot underscores their ongoing efforts to bolster their midfield in preparation for the post-Kroos era, while also navigating competition from several other top European clubs.