Real Madrid identify Braga’s 23-year-old standout as replacement for exit-bound star – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid are already planning for the summer transfer window, and the goalkeeper position is quietly becoming a topic of internal discussion. 

According to a report from Defensa Central, the team from the Spanish capital has identified 23-year-old Braga goalkeeper Lukas Hornicek as a potential replacement if Andriy Lunin decides to leave at the end of the season.

Lunin’s situation has been delicate for some time, as despite his quality, opportunities have been limited. 

With Thibaut Courtois delivering top-level performances week after week, there is little room for rotation in decisive matches.

Real Madrid will need a new #2

As such, the Belgian remains undisputed as the first-choice goalkeeper, and the club hopes that he can continue performing at the highest level for at least another two or three seasons. 

That long-term confidence could push Lunin towards a difficult decision. 

Lukas Hornicek is on Real Madrid’s radar. (Photo by Octavio Passos/Getty Images)

This uncertainty has led the club to monitor alternatives closely and one of the names gaining attention is Hornicek, currently playing for Braga. 

The Czech goalkeeper is just 23 and reportedly has a €30 million release clause. His age profile and development trajectory make him an appealing long-term option.

Interestingly, his agent Bernd Gabriel has hinted that the final transfer fee could be lower than the clause suggests.

“It’s no secret: he’s worth 30 million euros. In Spain and Portugal, these clauses are usually considered a starting point for negotiations. 

“I think a figure close to 20 million euros is realistic. Although Lukas has a contract with Braga until 2028,” he admitted.

Those comments have reportedly attracted interest beyond Spain, including from Italy.