Real Madrid ‘keep door open’ for exit of defender

Ferland Mendy, at 29, has completed one of his best seasons with Real Madrid, yet his future at the club remains uncertain. Despite his resurgence and key role in Real Madrid’s recent successes, the club is open to his departure if a suitable offer arrives.

The French left-back, who joined Real Madrid from Lyon in 2019, has impressed many with his performances this season. His contributions have been vital, making him an undisputed starter and a defensive linchpin. Even within the Bernabéu, there is a sense of surprise and admiration for Mendy’s sporting and physical reliability. However, despite his achievements, Real Madrid’s management believes that Mendy may have already delivered his best years of football.

Despite having a great season, Spanish outlet Relevo reports that Real Madrid will still let Mendy leave if a good offer arrives. Even people at the club are surprised with his performance recently, but the door is still open to an exit, sources indicate.

Mendy, Varane – Similar situation

Real Madrid’s stance on Mendy reflects their approach with Raphael Varane in 2021, where the club opted to sell the player when a lucrative offer came in, acknowledging that his peak years were likely behind him. Mendy, whose contract expires in 2025, faces a similar situation. His consistent physical issues, having missed 54 games since the 2020-21 season, add to the club’s concerns despite his recent injury-free spell.

Real Madrid know Mendy is a great player when he is at 100%, but they consider that he has already given his best years of football. A situation like that of Raphael Varane in 2021, sources explain.

European clubs and Saudi Arabia clubs interested in Mendy

Mendy’s outstanding season could attract significant interest from other clubs, potentially leading to offers that Real Madrid might find hard to refuse. Although Mendy has been on the market in previous transfer windows, he has hesitated to make a move. This summer, the prospect of Saudi Arabian clubs showing interest comes up again, as they were keen on acquiring his services last year but failed to secure the deal.

Ancelotti’s Preference

Carlo Ancelotti, Real Madrid’s manager, is particularly fond of Mendy’s defensive prowess and would prefer to keep him in the squad.

Carlo Ancelotti is in love with what Mendy offers him defensively. If he had to decide, he would renew the player’s contract immediately but that is the least likely option now, sources affirm. However, Ancelotti is aware that the club’s plans might not align with his wishes.

Why Madrid wants Mendy gone

One significant factor driving Real Madrid’s willingness to part ways with Mendy is their ambition to sign Alphonso Davies from Bayern Munich. Negotiations between the clubs are ongoing, with Bayern demanding a high fee that Madrid is reluctant to meet. Despite this, Real Madrid remains optimistic about striking a deal, especially since Davies has expressed his desire to join the Spanish giants.

One reason Real Madrid want to sell Ferland Mendy is because they want to sign Alphonso Davies, insiders note. The club sees Davies as a long-term solution at left-back, offering a younger, dynamic option compared to Mendy.

Mendy has a choice

Ultimately, Mendy’s future is in his hands. He can choose to stay another year and leave as a free agent in 2025, or he could seek a new challenge this summer. For now, Real Madrid is keeping the exit door open, prepared to make strategic decisions that will shape their squad for the coming seasons.