Saturday, 21st June, 2014
Carlo Ancelotti is happy for Real Madrid to sign Luis Suarez from Liverpool if at all possible, but only if it does not mean selling Karim Benzema.
The Italian tactician is a big fan of Benzema, who has been linked with being sold if Real Madrid pay big money to snap up Suarez from Liverpool in time for 2014/15.
But while the Real Madrid hierarchy received a 'yes' from Ancelotti on attempting to sign Suarez, it came with the caveat of not selling Benzema, according to Madrid-based daily Marca.
Signing Suarez would be an expensive operation for the Champions League winners, with speculation raging over a clause in the Uruguayan's contract at Anfield, which could be as high as €94m.
Barcelona are also being credited with an interest in Suarez, while Liverpool are sure to fight tooth and nail to keep their talisman at Anfield, especially with Champions League football back on the agenda in the new season.
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Real Madrid could yet oppose the Catalans, but only if they are convinced Suarez represents a worthwhile investment, a nod towards his age of 27; Suarez will be 28 before the 2014/15 season has finished.
Benzema meanwhile has shone in Brazil at the World Cup, helping himself to three goals so far.
And Ancelotti, a firm fan of the France international, has placed keeping Benzema at the heart of his plans.
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