Serie A giants eye Real Madrid star to replace Saudi-bound defender

Despite shining at the Club World Cup, seemingly ranking Xabi Alonso's trust, Fran Garcia could be on his way out of Real Madrid, with AC Milan lurking. 

The 25-year-old came up through the ranks at Real Madrid before joining Rayo, where he made his senior debut and proved his quality. He was re-signed by Real Madrid in the summer of 2023, and since then, he has struggled to cement the left-back slot.

Real Madrid completed the signing of fullback Álvaro Carreras from Benfica for a fee in the region of €50 million, and the former Manchester United star is expected to slot into the starting lineup. 

This comes as a risk to Garcia, who gained prominence last season amid an injury crisis to the Real Madrid back line. The former Rayo Vallecano man does not have to accept a second fiddle role anymore, however, as Milan are hoping to snap him up from Real Madrid. 

Following the exit of Theo Hernandez to the Saudi Pro League, new Rossoneri sporting director Igli Tare is said to have identified Fran Garcia as the ideal replacement for the Frenchman. 

According to Calciomercato, AC Milan will leverage their good relationship with Real Madrid to initiate talks. Los Blancos are expected to demand around €20 million for the defender.