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Jose Mourinho blocks Gonzalo Garcia exit at Real Madrid
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has halted any summer transfer for 21‑year‑old striker Gonzalo Garcia, preferring to evaluate the Spaniard during pre‑season rather than approve a move to Real Betis. Mourinho, who is also targeting Bernardo Silva and Marc Cucurella, noted Garcia only started 15 matches last season, contributing eight goals and three assists.
Before Mourinho took charge, Real Madrid were prepared to sell Garcia, planning to insert a buy‑back clause in any deal. The striker has also been linked with a move to Real Betis.
Garcia earned the top scorer award at last summer’s FIFA Club World Cup despite limited minutes. Despite those heroics, he struggled for regular game time throughout the season.
Mourinho’s current transfer agenda prioritises a new centre‑back and a midfielder, leaving the forward line largely unchanged. He therefore prefers to retain Garcia as versatile cover for central and right‑flank positions.
Within the squad, Garcia sits behind Kylian Mbappe in the hierarchy for the central striker role. He would also need to compete with Endrick for a deputy role behind the French forward.
If he remains at Real Madrid, Garcia is likely to see limited playing time, which could impede his development. Real Betis, needing a striker this summer, remains a plausible destination.