Fulham are looking to strengthen their growing Real Madrid connection by targeting highly-rated midfielder Thiago Pitarch, according to reports in Spain.
After securing the arrivals of Gonzalo García and César Palacios, the Premier League club have now identified the 19-year-old as another potential signing, with manager Álvaro Arbeloa eager to reunite with one of his former protégés.
Arbeloa pushing for reunion
According to MARCA, Pitarch is one of Arbeloa's favourite young players from his time at Real Madrid and the Fulham boss is keen to bring him to Craven Cottage.
The teenager is reportedly open to the move, while initial discussions between Fulham and the player's representatives have already taken place.
However, a deal is not considered imminent.
Fulham in no rush
Fulham are currently prioritising other areas of their squad before making a formal move for Pitarch.
The midfielder is also recovering from a knee injury, allowing the London club to take a patient approach.
In addition, Fulham continue to work on a deal for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, meaning further midfield business could depend on how those negotiations develop.
Uncertain future at Real Madrid
Pitarch's long-term future at the Santiago Bernabéu has become less certain following Arbeloa's departure.
The midfielder has lost one of his biggest supporters inside the club and, under José Mourinho, is not currently expected to feature prominently in the first-team squad.
If he remains in Spain, Pitarch is likely to spend the upcoming season with Real Madrid Castilla.
Breakthrough season caught Fulham's attention
Despite his age, Pitarch enjoyed an impressive breakthrough campaign last season.
The Spain youth international made 16 first-team appearances for Real Madrid and featured in high-profile Champions League fixtures against Manchester City and Bayern Munich, highlighting his potential to become a regular at the highest level.
Those performances have now placed him firmly on Fulham's radar as the club continue building for the future under Arbeloa.
Key Points
- Fulham have identified Thiago Pitarch as a transfer target.
- Álvaro Arbeloa wants to reunite with the Real Madrid midfielder.
- Initial talks have already taken place with the player's camp.
- Pitarch is recovering from a knee injury, meaning there is no immediate rush.
- Fulham are also pursuing Southampton midfielder Shea Charles.
What's Next?
Fulham are expected to focus on completing other transfer business before deciding whether to make a formal approach for Pitarch. If negotiations progress, the teenager could become the third Real Madrid player to join Arbeloa at Craven Cottage this summer.
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