Zidane calls off striker chase

Spanish publication 'Mundo Deportivo' reports that Zidane met with Real president Florentino Perez following his side's Club World Cup triumph and insisted that a new striker is not a priority when the transfer window reopens in the New Year.

However, Perez was quick to express his concern with Karim Benzema's complete lack of form, Gareth Bale's injury struggles and Borja Mayoral's lack of opportunities.

Following the Clasico catastrophe that befell 'Los Blancos' in their final game of 2017, Perez is keen to make a statement to bring dissenting Real fans back on side, with many starting to lose belief in the side, despite them winning five trophies in 2017.

With that in mind, Zidane met with the Real president as he does before every transfer window and assured the Bernabeu bigwig that Real's current squad is capable of big things in the coming weeks and months, with the club hoping to defend their Champions League title once again.

Whilst Zidane appears to have talked Perez out of a move for a striker by reaffirming his confidence in youngster Mayoral as well as a return to form for Benzema and a return to fitness for Bale, there is nothing the French coach can do to pull the plug on the deal to bring Kepa Arrizabalaga to the club.

The Real hierarchy have identified the Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper as the man to take the reins at the Bernabeu long-term and are set to sign the Spanish international in January, despite his contract expiring in the summer.

Zidane maintains complete confidence in Keylor Navas, but with the Costa Rican having passed the dreaded 30 mark and with Kiko Casilla largely failing to impress during Navas' recent absences through injury, Real chiefs have been quick to identify Kepa as a long-term option, with his contract status allowing Real to push through a deal for less than his true market value.

Finally, Perez suggested the option of signing an experienced defender, owing to concerns over Raphael Varane's injuries, but Zidane said that such a move was not necessary as he has Jesus Vallejo and Nacho to call upon.

Is Zidane right? Or do Real need another option up front? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.