Real Madrid Transfer News: Blancos Keep Tabs on Carlos Soler Amid Exit Rumours

Real Madrid and Manchester United are reportedly keeping an eye on Valencia talent Carlos Soler with an eye on a possible summer move.

According to Spanish newspaper El Confidencial (via TalkSport) the 21-year-old's breakout campaign has not gone unnoticed, and his current buyout clause of €80m (£70m) could present fair value for the two giants of football.

The report even states Valencia could settle for less, although that seems highly unlikely. Soler has long been regarded as one of Los Che's brightest prospects, and they've been highly protective of him in the past.

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In October of 2017, a team spokesperson shot down rumours linking the midfielder with United in an attempt to silence speculation immediately, making it clear there had been no approach, per Super Deporte (h/t Metro).

Soler has been one of the key players behind Valencia's resurgence in the 2017-18 campaign, with Los Che on pace to qualify for next year's UEFA Champions League.

As you can see in the video below, he came into the season with high expectations after some solid showings in the 2016-17 campaign:

He progressed tremendously during the summer, becoming a key part of the midfield unit.

The arrival of Geoffrey Kondogbia allowed him to focus more on creating and surging forward, resulting in an increase in assists and overall performances.

Soler still has a lot of developing to do, with his efficiency in front of goal a major working point. But for a player his age, he's well ahead of the curve, and his versatility would make him an asset for most clubs.

The move to an elite club like Real or United might come too soon, however. Valencia has been great for his development, and Soler should heed the example countless other prospects have set before him.

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Dani Ceballos may be the best recent example of a highly rated youngster who left a great place for him to develop―Real Betis―for a spot on the Blancos bench. He's barely featured this season, and there are already serious questions about his future at the club.

According to Mundo Deportivo (h/t the Mirror's Alex Smith) a host of clubs have already approached Real for his services, including Italian giants Juventus and AC Milan.

Top talents can force their way into the team at Real, but it's far safer to stick with a team already on course for the Champions League that will give you the minutes you need. If Soler can continue his development, he'll be worth a lot more in a few years, and won't have to worry about playing time at all.