In what is sure to be an epic summer of signings for Real Madrid, returning Real president Florentino Perez has captured the signing of Brazilian playmaker Kaka from AC Milan. The fee for the 27 year old is reported to be in the region of $75 million, eclipsing the previous record Real paid for Zenedine Zidane in 2001.An AC Milan statement read:
"It will be very difficult to fill the void that will be left by Kaka, [He is] a shining example of professionalism and commitment."
"AC Milan thanked the man and the great champion Kaka for his decisive contribution to the many victories achieved in the six years of his commitment."
Kaka underwent a medical yesterday in Recife, ahead of the national teams game with Paraguay. The official unveiling in Madrid is unlikely to take place until the end of the month, as Kaka will be playing for Brazil in the upcoming Confederations Cup in South Africa.
Kaka has long been a target for Real Madrid since former president Ramon Calderon promised to sign him in his election campaign in 2006 but failed to deliver. Perez, who led the Spanish club from 2000 to 2006 during the famous Galacticos era, has promised a return to the top of Europe's elite, and this is sure to back his claims. Whats more, he has promised more to come in the summer and has also been linked to Cristiano Ronaldo.
I think this is an excellent signing for Real Madrid. Real struggled last season because of injuries. With the likes of Ruud Van Nistelrooy and Arjen Roben coming back into the team, Real are sure to be a presence anyway. Next on the list, in my opinion has to be a strong center midfielder, someone like Claude Makelele who Real never replaced after leaving for Chelsea. And with Perez ready to show he is the man to bring the team back to the top of the European hierarchy it could be an exciting summer of signings. On the other hand, lets hope he gets it right as this could be a big financial gamble in a very downward spiraling economy!
