Champions League
Real Madrid eyes homegrown left‑back with €25m Betis clause
Real Madrid have already confirmed the arrivals of Ibrahima Konate, Denzel Dumfries, Marc Cucurella and Bernardo Silva this summer, while Fran Garcia completed a €4 million move to Real Betis on Wednesday, creating a vacancy in the left‑back department that the club may soon look to fill.
Garcia had fallen to fourth in the left‑back pecking order after the arrival of Cucurella, prompting expectations of his departure. Although Premier League clubs showed interest, he chose to join Betis in Andalusia.
Real Madrid retained a 50 % sell‑on clause and received €4 million, meaning they could re‑sign the 26‑year‑old for up to €25 million if they wish. Fabrizio Romano reported that Betis inserted a €50 million release clause in Garcia’s contract.
Given Garcia is homegrown, bringing him back for €25 million would help satisfy Champions League squad rules. At 26, he is not yet in his prime, so the fee may not be excessive if he develops into a top La Liga left‑back.
Real Madrid will keep a close eye on his performances at Betis, hoping he becomes one of the best left‑backs in La Liga. Success could either generate a lucrative future sale or justify a return to the Bernabéu.
The summer also saw Dani Ceballos exit the club, underscoring a broader squad reshuffle. These moves reflect the sporting department’s active approach to rebuilding the squad.