A recent report from AS has revealed an interesting twist in the journey of Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai. The Hungarian star, now a key player at Anfield, was once on Real Madrid’s radar before his move to England.
Back in 2020, Szoboszlai was making waves at RB Salzburg, showcasing his immense potential. At the time, clubs across Europe were vying for his signature.
Reports even suggested that then-Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane personally reached out to the young talent, hinting at a future with Los Blancos.
This is because Madrid viewed Szoboszlai as a player who could strengthen their squad in the short-to-medium term, but circumstances unfolded differently.
Then what happened?
Eventually, RB Leipzig capitalised on their close ties with Salzburg, securing Szoboszlai’s services for €36 million in January 2021. Around the same period, Zidane departed Real Madrid, and the club’s focus shifted elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Szoboszlai’s career flourished in the Bundesliga. By the summer of 2023, Liverpool made a decisive move, signing the Hungarian midfielder for a significant €70 million.
Despite his young age, Szoboszlai had already cemented himself as one of the most exciting midfield prospects in Europe.
Real Madrid’s decision not to pursue Szoboszlai further likely stemmed from their already stacked midfield at the time.
The trio of Casemiro, Luka Modric, and Toni Kroos dominated proceedings, while young talents like Federico Valverde, Martin Odegaard, and Isco were waiting in the wings.
Additionally, Salzburg’s high asking price made Szoboszlai an expensive option, especially for a player who wouldn’t have been a guaranteed starter.
Madrid eventually turned their attention to other rising stars, including Eduardo Camavinga, whom they signed in 2021.
Fast forward to today, Szoboszlai is thriving at Liverpool. Under Jurgen Klopp and now Arne Slot, he has become a cornerstone of their midfield.
With a contract running until 2028, Szoboszlai seems fully committed to his Liverpool journey, leaving his Real Madrid dreams firmly in the past.
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