Five transfer targets for Rafa Benitez at Real Madrid this summer

Having been named the new manager of Real Madrid in what was an emotional press conference, Rafa Benitez will already have targets in mind, however, he will know that president Florentino Perez usually takes charge of signings.

Players who were previously on the periphery under Carlo Ancelotti, such as Asier Illarramendi and Isco, may find themselves back in the fold. Benitez has always been a fan of technically gifted Spanish players, and this duo fit the bill.

Despite Los Blancos being likely to move for big-name signings in the summer, Coral take a look at five players who might appeal to Benitez.

Inigo Martinez
Real Sociedad’s talented Spanish centre back is likely to be in demand, and he is definitely someone who would appeal to Benitez. The 24-year-old is a natural successor for the ageing Pepe and is the perfect partner for Sergio Ramos.

Sergio Aguero
Apparently, Benitez has earmarked Manchester City’s lethal Argentine attacker as his number one transfer target and should this materialise, it could well signal the end of Karim Benzema’s time at the club.

Marek Hamsik
Long linked with a move away from the club, to a top European outfit, Benitez may move for one of the players he managed at Napoli.

At 27, the Slovakian is reaching the peak of his career and as such, a move to a club of the stature of Real, would be a nice reward for years of loyal service. Should he make the switch to the Bernabeau, Hamsik can form a potentially devastating partnership with Toni Kroos.

David De Gea
This is one transfer story which could drag on all summer, though the player hasn’t made up his mind. Without a doubt, the Spaniard is one of the best goalkeepers in the world, and should he move to Los Blancos, he will replace legend Iker Casillas, while also doing so for Spain.