According to reports by Turkish outlet 'Fanatik', Ancelotti has been impressed by the Juventus central defender who is out on loan with Atalanta.
Surprising news coming out o Turkey - local outlet Fanatik claim that Real Madrid are looking to sign Merih Demiral, who has been requested by Carlo Ancelotti. The 23-year-old Turkish central defender has been enjoyed a brilliant season at Atalanta, where is on a year-long loan from Juventus. His performances have not only impressed Ancelotti, it is believed that Napoli and Newcastle are also interested in signing him. Gian Piero Gasperini's side have the option to buy Demiral for 27 million euros at the end of the season - that could turn out to be a highly productive move if they plan to sell the player on at a profit.
Demiral has taken no time to win over the fans in Bergamo, who have nicknamed him 'The General'. So far he has played 19 games for La Dea, including five starts in the team's last five Champions League games. He was on the scoresheet in the trip to Old Trafford back in October, although it wasn't enough to stop United winning the game 3-2. He is rated for his aerial power and vast experience playing at the top level even though he is still only 23.
He caught Juventus' eye while he was at Alanyaspor. He spent six months on loan at Sassuolo before Juve decided to pay 19.5 million euros for him in the summer of 2019. He didn't get much regular playing time in Turin with his path to the first team blocked by veterans Chiellini and Bonucci and another promising young star Matthijs de Ligt. After making just 32 appearances in two seasons, he accepted the chance to join Atalanta on loan.
Several clubs eyeing Demiral
The option to buy him is interesting for Atlanta because Demiral's market value has increased during his time out on loan. According to Transfermarkt, he is worth 28 million euros. Madrid, Napoli and Newcastle are not the only clubs interested in signing him - Chelsea, Leicester and Man United have all shown an interest in the young defender. That could drive his price up even further.
Real Madrid have been happy with how the Alaba-Militão partnership has developed but they might be looking to strengthen the defensive line after losing two players, Ramos and Varane last summer. They are the favourites to land Antonio Rüdiger if he finally decides not to renew with Chelsea. Rüdiger might be available as a free agent in July while Demiral would certainly be a most costly operation...