Real Madrid fans from around the world tuned in to the news of the clubs announcement of their latest signing. The Los Vikingos revealed that they have sealed a six-year deal with Ukraine’s 19-year-old stopper Andriy Lunin. The dashing youngster was sold for an initial fee of €8.5million by Zorya Luhansk, for whom Lunin had played for in the 2017-18 season.
The young stopper definitely seems to know what he wants at the club. With the signing of Rodrygo from Santos earlier in the month, Real Madrid’s new gaffer Julen Lopetegui seems to be striking the right chord with back-to-back signings. Now, let us take a look at the reasons why Real Madrid’s investment on Andriy Lunin will benefit the club in coming days.
Top clubs like Liverpool and Inter Milan had their eye on Andriy Lunin, thanks to his mind-blowing goalkeeping skills displayed during his time at Ukrainian club Zorya Luhansk. It’s not every other day that you come across a club like Inter Milan and Liverpool showing their interest on a 19-year-old, especially for the role of a stopper. But the youngster turned down any offer that came his way to play for Real Madrid. His wait finally paid off on Saturday, indicating that dreams do come true.
When was the last time anyone witnessed a 19-year-old stand in front of a goalpost to represent his country? Hard to remember, isn’t it? Andriy Lunin was Ukraine’s (ranked 35 currently) substitute keeper during the recent FIFA World Cup qualification round before making his full-time debut against Saudi Arabia in a 1-1 draw in March.
Following his impressive show against Saudi Arabia, a confident coach (Andriy Shevchenko) handed Lunin his second cap against Albania earlier this month, which was won by Ukraine 4-1.
Following the shocking departure of Zinedine Zidane from Real Madrid last month, there have been wide speculations that the future of his 20-year-old son Luca Zidane is at stake at the club. Under Zidane, Luca was the clubs third-choice goalkeeper last season.
But, with his exit, the Real Madrid management might second thoughts. Furthermore, the signing of Lunin could push him further below the pecking order.
Regardless of how things turn out for Lunin, he will definitely give his best for Real Madrid Castilla (club’s B team) in the upcoming season and who knows, one day he might go on to represent the Los Vikingos.
