Real Betis Linked With Icardi: Talks Have Started

Mauro Icardi, whose contract with Galatasaray expired on June 30, has still not found a new club five months later. A new claim about the 33-year-old Argentine striker's future has come from Spain.

According to a report by Fichajes, La Liga club Real Betis has added Icardi to its list after head coach Manuel Pellegrini asked for alternatives in attack for the second half of the season. It is said that initial contacts have been made with the player's representatives, but no official offer has been submitted yet. The fact that no transfer fee would have to be paid is seen as an important opportunity for the Andalusian club.

The biggest obstacle to the transfer is salary. It is reported that Icardi earned around 10 million euros at Galatasaray last season, and that this is far above what Betis can afford to pay. It is stated that he would need to accept a significant reduction in his wages to move to the Seville club.

The claim also says that, in addition to Real Betis, Juventus, Elche, Everton, Tottenham, Benfica and PAOK are closely monitoring Icardi.

In his four seasons at Galatasaray, the Argentine striker played 134 official matches. During this period he scored 77 goals and provided 25 assists, contributing directly to a total of 102 goals.