Barcelona and Real Madrid both want Antonito, the Malaga wonderkid

• Real Madrid and Barcelona are targeting 18-year-old Malaga sensation Antonio Cordero, known as Antonito.
• Both clubs want to secure his signature in January to strengthen their B teams.
• Malaga have been unable to agree on a contract extension with the player, whose current deal expires in June 2025.
• Antonito has impressed in the Segunda División and with Spain’s U19 side.
• The player’s agent, Pini Zahavi, has close ties with Barcelona president Joan Laporta, adding intrigue to the transfer saga.

Why Are Real Madrid and Barcelona Eyeing Antonito?

The January transfer window is set to spark a heated rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona, with both clubs reportedly vying for the signature of Malaga’s breakout star, Antonio Cordero, better known as Antonito. The 18-year-old midfielder has been a standout performer in Spain’s Segunda División this season, registering three goals and three assists in just 12 league appearances, despite starting only seven games.

His talents extend to the international stage, where he recently shone for Spain’s U19 side during the EURO U19 qualifiers. Antonito contributed a goal and an assist in an 83-minute cameo against the Faroe Islands, further solidifying his reputation as one of Spain’s brightest prospects.

What Is the Current Situation?

Real Madrid first attempted to sign Antonito during the summer transfer window, intending to place him in their B team, Real Madrid Castilla. However, Malaga rejected their approach, opting instead to push for a contract renewal. Yet with his current deal set to expire in June 2025, talks between the player and his club remain at a standstill. This contractual limbo opens the door for Antonito to negotiate a pre-contract agreement as early as January.

Barcelona, meanwhile, have also entered the race, reportedly eager to bolster Barca Atletic. Both B teams are under threat of relegation to the fourth tier, heightening the urgency for reinforcements. Antonito’s technical skill and creativity could be pivotal in helping either side stave off demotion.

What Could Influence Antonito’s Decision?

The competition for Antonito’s signature is further intensified by the involvement of his agent, Pini Zahavi. Known for his influential role in high-profile transfers, Zahavi’s close relationship with Barcelona president Joan Laporta could give the Catalan giants an edge. Zahavi also represents footballing stars such as Robert Lewandowski, suggesting that Antonito’s next move will be a calculated one.

For Malaga, retaining their young star remains a priority, but the allure of playing for two of the world’s biggest clubs might prove too tempting for Antonito to resist. Additionally, both Real Madrid and Barcelona’s determination to secure immediate impact players for their B teams adds an extra layer of urgency to this transfer saga.

What’s Next?

The clock is ticking as January approaches. Whether Antonito stays loyal to Malaga or opts for a move to one of La Liga’s giants remains to be seen. One thing is certain: his decision could shape the fortunes of Real Madrid Castilla or Barça Atletic this season, and fans will be eagerly watching to see how this transfer story unfolds.

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