Fulham Poised for Third Real Madrid Youngster as Arbeloa Eyes Next Transfer Coup

FC Fulham is increasingly resembling a Real Madrid affiliate. Manager Alvaro Arbeloa, a former Real player himself, is reportedly close to securing the transfer of Thiago Pitarch, which would mark the third top talent from the Spanish capital to move to London.

With Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios already on the verge of joining the Cottagers, the Spanish sports newspaper Marca reports that Pitarch's transfer is only a matter of time. Arbeloa is keen on the 18-year-old midfielder, and the player has reportedly given his approval.

While Pitarch doesn't seem to feature in the plans of Real Madrid's new/old manager Jose Mourinho, he shares a special connection with Arbeloa, to whom he owes three significant debuts in his young career. Under Arbeloa's guidance, the central midfielder first played for Real's U19 team, then for the reserves, and finally for the senior squad last season. The relatively slight youngster made ten league appearances and six in the Champions League, even starting in the Round of 16 against Manchester City and the first leg of the quarter-finals against FC Bayern.

Managerial Musical Chairs Between Lisbon, Madrid, and London

Arbeloa was promoted from managing Real Madrid's reserves to the senior team in January to replace Xabi Alonso, who was dismissed after just over six months in charge. At the end of the season, which Real once again finished without a trophy, Arbeloa departed and joined FC Fulham. His move allowed Marco Silva to leave and become the head coach of Benfica, where he replaced Mourinho, who had taken over Arbeloa's position at Real Madrid.

According to consistent media reports, the transfers of Garcia and Palacios are mere formalities. Garcia is expected to cost at least €40 million, and Palacios between €8 to €10 million. Pitarch's transfer fee is likely to be at least €20 million.