Arsenal and Manchester United have reportedly joined the race for Como centre-back Jacobo Ramon, though Real Madrid hold a significant advantage.
Premier League Giants Monitor Ramon
According to Tutto Mercato Web, the Gunners and the Red Devils are weighing up a move for the 21-year-old, who has impressed under Cesc Fabregas this season. Ramon has been a key figure in Como’s Champions League campaign and found the net against United last week.
Real Madrid Buyback Clause Complicates Matters
Como value the Spaniard at £42m, but Madrid, who developed him through their academy, hold a £7.5m buyback option. That clause makes it tough for either English club to land their man.
With Antonio Rudiger getting older and Eder Militao struggling for fitness, Ramon could find regular minutes back in the Spanish capital. Another route would see Madrid trigger the clause and sell him on for a profit, though that would push his price even higher.
Our Take
Ramon’s aerial strength, physicality and ability to read the game make him an ideal fit for the Premier League. Arsenal would benefit from fresh defensive competition, while United badly need a long-term centre-back target.
In our opinion, however, Madrid’s buyback clause is the biggest obstacle. Unless Los Blancos decide he is surplus to requirements, both English sides may struggle to prise him away from the Bernabeu.