Report: Real Madrid Consider USA’s Oguchi Onyewu As Back-Up For Arbeloa

Real Madrid are reportedly considering making a surprise move for Standard Liege’s Oguchi Onyewu if they fail to secure the services of Liverpool full-back Alvaro Arbeloa, according to El Mundo Deportivo.

The giant American defender, who played a pivotal role in knocking out Spain in the semi-finals of the FIFA Confederations Cup, is seen as a perfect footballing and business operation.

First of all, the 27-year-old will be able to join Los Merengues on a free transfer as his contract with Liege expired on June 30 and he has already revealed that he will not renew his agreement.

His presence at the capital giants could also give club president Florentino Perez a head start to break into the North American market. He is currently planning to establish a foothold in the region, organising a pre-season tour to take on Toronto FC and DC United in August.

In addition, the player nicknamed ‘Gooch’ will not take up any of the non-EU slots in the squad as he holds Belgian citizenship.

Onyewu, who has previously played for French side Metz and Newcastle United, is largely a central-back but Madrid would have no problems converting another central defender, new signing Raul Albiol, into a full-back when necessary.

The ‘Casa Blanca’ have already been told by Liverpool that Arbeloa would cost at least €9 million, €5m more than the figure the Spaniards are willing to pay. They are, however, also rumoured to be tracking Gael Clichy and Ashley Cole.

KS Leong, Goal.com