Real Betis emerge as favourites to sign Real Madrid defender | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s aggressive recruitment drive is beginning to create consequences elsewhere in the squad, and Fran Garcia could be one of the first players affected. 

After the arrival of Marc Cucurella, competition at left-back has intensified to the point where the club is now expected to decide on at least one defender before the season begins.

Fresh information from journalist Jose Felix Diaz in AS suggests that Real Betis have positioned themselves at the front of the queue for Garcia’s signature, with the Andalusian side increasingly optimistic about their chances of securing a deal.

After fighting for opportunities and remaining committed to Real Madrid since returning from Rayo Vallecano, Garcia now faces the possibility of seeing his path to regular football blocked more than ever.

Garcia’s situation has changed dramatically

A year ago, Garcia was competing for minutes and attempting to establish himself as a reliable option in Madrid’s first-team setup. Today, the landscape looks very different.

Real Betis are favourites to sign Fran Garcia. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

The signing of Cucurella has altered the hierarchy on the left side of defence and created a level of competition that may simply be unsustainable. 

Real Madrid now have four players capable of operating in the same position, making departures almost inevitable.

On that note, the expectation within the club is that Cucurella will immediately become the leading option. 

Meanwhile, Alvaro Carreras is still viewed as an important part of the long-term project after having arrived just last summer.

That leaves Garcia in an increasingly vulnerable position.

The defender continues to attract interest across Europe, which is hardly surprising given his age, experience and proven ability in La Liga. 

Fran Garcia is set to leave Real Madrid. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

Interest is not new either, as several clubs have monitored his situation for months, and Real Madrid previously rejected an approach from Bournemouth during the winter transfer window.

This time, however, the circumstances appear different.

Real Betis ready to make a move

Among the clubs following the situation, Betis have emerged as the strongest contender.

The Seville-based side is searching for reinforcements capable of improving the squad immediately, and Garcia’s profile fits perfectly. 

He knows Spanish football, has experience at the highest level and remains in his prime years.

As far as Real Madrid are concerned, they will not stand in his way, as selling Garcia would generate immediate income while simultaneously helping solve a squad-balance issue.