Carlo Ancelotti has began to prepare for other targets if the Los Blanco fail to land Jude Bellingham.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly set his sights on Torino midfielder Samuele Ricci as a potential backup option if the club fails to secure the signing of Jude Bellingham.
According to a report by Defensa Central the 21-year-old Italian has caught Ancelotti’s attention and he is keen to bring him to the Santiago Bernabeu. Ricci is currently seen as a contingency plan should Real Madrid fail to land their primary target in the upcoming transfer window.
Ricci, who spent his early years at Empoli, has risen to prominence since joining Torino last year.
The 21-year-old midfielder has registered one goal and one assist in 24 appearance despite not being a regular starter for the Serie-A side.
The midfielder initially spent six months on loan at Torino before making the move permanent in July 2022. His progress has reportedly caught the eye of Ancelotti, who is believed to be impressed by Ricci’s technical ability and potential.
Real Madrid have been linked with a move for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Bellingham for some time, but Ricci’s emergence as a potential target suggests that the club are keeping their options open as they look to bolster their midfield options ahead of next season.