Fenerbahçe manager Jose Mourinho has set his sights on Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin, according to reports from Defensa Central.
The Portuguese coach is keen on strengthening his squad this summer, and the Ukrainian shot-stopper has emerged as a serious target.
The situation around Lunin is becoming increasingly delicate for Los Blancos. When called upon to replace Thibaut Courtois last season, he has delivered commanding performances, showing composure, maturity, and personality between the posts.
He proved he could handle the pressure at the highest level, making a strong case that he deserves to be more than just a backup.
Real Madrid value Lunin
Despite this, Real Madrid are reluctant to let him go. The club values Lunin highly and recognise his contribution during Courtois’ absence.
However, with the Belgian goalkeeper now fully recovered and in advanced talks to extend his contract until 2027, Lunin once again finds himself pushed into the shadows.
Fenerbahçe are interested in Lunin. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Courtois remains untouchable, and barring any unexpected setbacks, he will continue as Madrid’s undisputed number one.
Future in question
This opens up a question about Lunin’s future. At his age, the Ukrainian needs continuity and regular minutes to develop further.
He is no longer a prospect but a goalkeeper ready to command his own defence, and sitting on the bench week after week does not align with his ambitions.
For Mourinho, this is where the opportunity lies.
Fenerbahçe are not satisfied with current first-choice keeper Dominik Livaković, who has failed to meet expectations since his arrival.
The Turkish side are already working to find him a new club, and Mourinho is pushing for Lunin to take over the role, as he views the Real Madrid keeper as an immediate and reliable solution.
The interest from Fenerbahçe puts Real Madrid in a complicated position. On the one hand, the club would prefer to keep Lunin as a solid backup option to Courtois, but they must consider the player’s own wishes.