In a transfer market full of surprises, the name of Pedro Gonçalves, better known as “Pote,” emerged as a possible addition to Real Madrid, but finally, the merengue club rejected the opportunity offered by the influential agent Jorge Mendes.
Jorge Mendes has reportedly presented Real Madrid with the possibility of signing Pedro Gonçalves during the summer transfer window. The Portuguese midfielder, who currently plays for Sporting CP, has a termination clause of 80 million euros.
The player that Jorge Mendes offered to Real Madrid
Although Sporting CP would have accepted an offer of around 40 million euros for Pote, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez chose not to complete the operation and rejected the opportunity to sign the talented 25-year-old player.
Pedro Gonçalves has stood out as one of the best footballers in the Primeira Liga since his arrival at Sporting CP in August 2020. The Portuguese international quickly became a key player for the team, occupying the position that once belonged to Bruno Fernandes.
Despite his outstanding performance in the Portuguese league, Gonçalves has yet to establish himself as a fundamental player for the Portugal national team. However, he has racked up an impressive stat line of 59 goals and 34 assists in 133 appearances for Sporting CP.
Several high-profile clubs showed interest in the versatile midfielder, and his €80 million release clause did not deter most suitors. Although Sporting CP accepted an offer of around half that figure, Real Madrid opted to maintain their current attacking set-up, relying on players such as Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes for the season.
Pedro Gonçalves’ future remains uncertain, but his name will continue to be heard in the transfer market as he continues his rise in the world of football.