‘Whatever happens’ – Canada star Alphonso Davies keeps Real Madrid transfer rumours raging after putting Champions League audition at Santiago Bernabeu with Bayern Munich

The Canada international was in the Spanish capital for the second leg of a heavyweight Champions League semi-final showdown. He started that game on the bench, but replaced the injured Serge Gnabry inside half-an-hour and appeared to have settled the tie when scoring a stunning goal in the 68th minute.

Real were to turn the game on its head, courtesy of substitute Joselu, leaving Davies to reflect on what could have been while also seeing questions asked of his future. The jet-heeled 23-year-old has been linked with a move to Madrid on a regular basis and is approaching the final year of his contract in Germany.

There has been talk of the Blancos making an approach in the summer transfer window, or waiting until Davies hits free agency in 2025, with the man himself saying when quizzed on his long-term plans: “Will I play here at the Bernabuu next? Right now, my agent is talking to Bayern. Whatever happens, I’m very grateful to Bayern.”

Real have no need to push for Davies at this point as Ferland Mendy has enjoyed a welcome return to form in their left-back berth this season. The Canadian speedster has, however, been a long-standing target and the lack of fresh terms at the Allianz Arena suggests that a new challenge may hold some appeal.