Real Madrid lose control of former academy starlet’s future after big-money move to the Premier League | OneFootball

One of the most significant moves for Real Madrid on the deadline day of the summer transfer window, surprisingly, had nothing to do with a direct departure or arrival from the club.

Instead, it was the sale of Chema Andres who moved from Stuttgart to Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League for a big fee, part of which Real Madrid were entitled to as they held 50% of the player’s rights.

The youngster, thus, became part of a historic transfer window for Real Madrid where the club made over €200 million from youth player sales, windfalls and other similar operations.

Real Madrid lose their rights

As reported by Diario AS, Chema’s move from Serie A to the Premier League closed for a sum of €23 million last night, making it a costly operation for Brighton.

Owing 50% of his rights, Real Madrid pocketed €11.5 million straight from the transfer and will be pleased with that development. There is, however, a twist.

After taking home their handsome windfall, Real Madrid have forfeited all rights over the player. Not only do they no longer hold a percentage of his ownership but they also have no more buy-back clauses or any priority purchase option.

The connection between Chema and Real Madrid is thus severed for good, and Brighton now own 100% of the player with complete control over his future.

A tactical decision

Real Madrid knew well in advance that they would lose control of the player once his move to England went through but chose not to act on it.

The Merengues had a buy-back option on the player and could have signed him back this summer as an intermediate step before releasing him to Brighton if they wished to retain control.

Their decision not to interfere in matters is an indication that they were prepared to lose control of his future, and is thus a completely planned decision.

After all, the scope for Chema to return to Real Madrid in the long run is near-zero. Nevertheless, the hope will be that he can continue to flourish and grow in England into the player he has always been hyped to be.