Three reasons why Real Madrid should sign Christian Eriksen this winter

Real Madrid are reportedly considering the signing of Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen in the winter transfer window. Eriksen hasn’t signed a contract extension with the London-based club and would become a free agent next summer. Still, Madrid want to complete a move for the midfielder this winter so that he can help them compete for all three titles.

Here are three reasons why that move would make sense.

1. Eriksen would probably get more offers as a free agent. Many clubs in European football are spending more money than Real Madrid on salaries, so Los Blancos would probably need to offer Eriksen close to €15 million/year if he actually becomes a free agent. However, if Madrid reach an agreement with Tottenham they’ll need to pay around €30 million —the contract with Eriksen would probably be cheaper— as a transfer fee but the midfielder would not receive as much interest from other clubs. The money spent would be pretty much the same. This is a very good opportunity for Real Madrid to get a young —27 years old—, quality replacement for Luka Modric while adding some depth to the current midfield line.
2. Eriksen’s versatility is real. He can play as a central midfielder, as a mediapunta behind the striker and also on both flanks if needed. This is one of Eriksen’s strengths and definitely one which Real Madrid can use. Players like Casemiro, Kroos, Modric, Bale or Hazard would be able to rest more often until Eriksen actually adjusts to La Liga and competes for a spot in the starting XI.
3. Simply put, Real Madrid need midfielders. Casemiro and Kroos have been excellent this season and the same can be said about Valverde. However, this will be a very long season and Los Blancos need more bodies so that Casemiro and Kroos can get to the final third of the season with fresh legs. The situation with the midfield line appeared to be worse during the summer and those players have delivered, but Real Madrid are struggling with injuries and a quality midfielder would help their cause this season.