Real Madrid youngster in talks to sign for La Liga club after France move collapses – report

Real Madrid's young forward Jacobo Ortega is in negotiations to sign with La Liga club Elche CF, reports journalist Angel Garcia. The 20-year-old striker is seeking to finalize a move from the Valencian club following the collapse of a previously reported transfer to French Ligue 1 side Strasbourg. Ortega, a primary summer target for Strasbourg, impressed scouts with his tactical versatility and physical strength.

A €8 million deal for 50% economic rights was close to being agreed upon, but negotiations reportedly fell through due to disagreements over structural terms, including the buy-back clause. Elche quickly reached out to Ortega and Real Madrid's executive board following the breakdown. The young forward, who scored 18 goals across Real Madrid Castilla, Real Madrid C, and the Juvenil A teams last season, is open to the move as he wants to stay in Spain to further his development.

Negotiations between Elche and Real Madrid are expected to continue this week to finalize the financial details.