Real Madrid sign Liverpool midfielder John Doe in €100m deal
Real Madrid have completed the signing of Liverpool midfielder John Doe for a reported €100 million, confirming a five-year contract for the 26-year-old England international. The deal concludes weeks of negotiations between the Champions League holders and the Premier League club, with medical tests finalized on Tuesday ahead of La Liga's registration deadline.
Doe leaves Anfield after five seasons where he established himself as a key figure in Jurgen Klopp's midfield, making 217 appearances and winning both the Premier League and Champions League. His departure follows Liverpool's strategic shift towards younger targets, with the fee representing a club-record sale for the Merseysiders.
For Madrid, the acquisition addresses Carlo Ancelotti's need for midfield reinforcement following Toni Kroos' retirement and Luka Modric's reduced role. Doe's tactical versatility and experience in high-pressure matches align with the Spanish giants' preference for proven performers in European competition.
The transfer fee could rise by €15 million through performance-related add-ons, according to Marca. Doe becomes Madrid's third summer signing after Kylian Mbappé and Endrick, further strengthening a squad that claimed last season's domestic and European double.
Liverpool are expected to reinvest funds immediately, having already identified Feyenoord's Arne Slot as their primary midfield target. Doe's exit follows Mohamed Salah's contract extension, suggesting the Reds are balancing squad evolution with financial sustainability under Fenway Sports Group.