Florentino Perez is promising fireworks if Real Madrid's members vote him back in as president on Sunday.
The club chief told Spanish television he'll make a massive bid for an attacking midfielder within days of winning re-election. He's talking about a transfer fee around €150 million—the biggest Real Madrid has ever spent.
Perez spoke to Horizonte ahead of the vote with tantalizing hints about his target. He refused to name the player but offered crucial clues about the mystery signing.
"On Tuesday or so, I'm going to make an offer to a major Champions League club for a great player," Perez told reporters. According to him, it would shatter the club's spending record.
Several names are definitely off the table. Perez ruled out Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise, insisting the target isn't the England international.
Manchester City's Jeremy Doku won't be the signing either, he confirmed. Nor will it be Erling Haaland, despite rival candidate Enrique Riquelme claiming he could deliver the striker.
The player won't come from English football, Perez made clear. He emphasized that Real Madrid will first speak directly with the player's club.
"He needs to be a player from midfield who can go forward," Perez noted in his words. "We're going to make a significant offer, at least around €150 million."
Why the blockbuster plan now? Perez sees it as essential medicine for the fanbase.
"It's a signing meant to generate excitement because that's what it's all about—generating excitement," he said. Supporters have endured two trophy-less seasons, and morale needs lifting.
Real Madrid just finished eight points behind Barcelona in La Liga. Last season produced nothing either on the major silverware front.
This election matters more than any in two decades for Perez. He's actually facing opposition this time after 20 years of running unopposed.
Nearly 100,000 club members will vote on Sunday. Each pays roughly £130 annually for voting rights in the membership-owned institution.
Perez first took control in 2000 and built the legendary "Galacticos" era. He brought Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo, and David Beckham to the Bernabéu back then.
Those signings delivered two La Liga titles and a Champions League trophy before his 2006 resignation. He returned unopposed in 2009 and has dominated ever since.
Beyond the midfield target, Perez claims other deals are waiting on the shelf. Manager Jose Mourinho's arrival depends on his re-election, he suggested.
Inter Milan's Denzel Dumfries could also arrive under a Perez administration, according to the president. Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate is another name linked with previously agreed terms.
Konate's contract situation is reportedly deteriorating at Anfield. Real Madrid appears ready to pounce if given the green light.
With Sunday's vote approaching fast, Perez is banking on dreams of grandeur to sway voters. A record transfer and fresh Galactico energy might just be enough.
