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According to reports from Onda Cero, which have been further supported by Bild, Marca, and a reputable Catalan journalist Gerard Romero, Real Madrid are in talks with Bayern over the sale of Thiago. The fee is rumored to be in the €50 - €60 million range. Lopetegui is a huge admirer of the player as they have worked together at various levels with the Spanish National team. Real Madrid’s new manager has used Thiago in many different roles: a deep lying playmaking defensive midfielder, a box to box central midfielder, and as a 10, with freedom to attack and dictate tempo.
The report from Onda Cero suggests an agreement has already been reached with the player who would be delighted to work under Lopetegui’s orders. Despite the recent sale of Vidal, Bayern is apparently open to Thiago’s departure. The relationship between both clubs, Madrid and Bayern, is strong thus giving more credence to reports of quick negotiations.
Thiago is undoubtley a Lopetegui-type player and many in Madrid would see this as a coup over Barcelona—stealing one of their own. Though, what does this mean for Modric’s future? If nothing, then it certainly impacts the future of Mateo Kovacic. The Spaniards injury record is also worth noting, but Madrid are well equipped for any injury with the likes of Ceballos, Isco, and Llorente all able to fill a vacant midfield spot.