Baptista to fight for his place

Written by Sam Wilson , 24.07 11h32

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Brazilian playmaker Julio Baptista has vowed to stay at Real Madrid and fight for his place after the club finally unveiled their new manager, German legend Bernd Schuster, following Fabio Capello surprise departure earlier in the summer.

Baptista has been linked with a move away from the Bernabeu with AC Milan, Villarreal and Newcastle United leading the chase, but the mercurial forward told Sky Sports he would first try and force his way into the former Getafe manager‘s plans.

He said: “I have to understand what my future at Real will be. I want a chance to prove to Schuster that I can be a useful member of the squad. If I am not successful in this, then I will consider any offers I have received.”

Schuster formally took over on July 9th after Real President Ramon Calderon decided not to renew Capello’s contract, despite the Italian boss guiding Real to their first La Liga title for four years.

And Baptista is hopeful that he will play a part in the German coach’s more attacking line-up as Real look to defend their title next season.

But should the Brazilian fail to break into the star-studded Real side he could be on his way back to the Premiership, with Newcastle leading the race for his signature.

Baptista, 25, played a starring role in Brazil’s recent Copa America triumph and Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce is reportedly keen on bringing “the Beast” to St James Park.

According to Real sources, the Magpies boss have already tabled a £6 million bid for the forward.

Baptista, who spent last season on loan at Arsenal, is confident that should he make a permanent move to the Premiership he will be able to prove his undoubted quality.

He said: “I believe I showed at Arsenal last season that I can play in England, score goals and make goals.

“Newcastle is a big club but before I consider a move I need to know about my future with Real. I want the chance in pre-season to show our new coach Bernd Schuster I should be part of his plans.

“If things don't work out here I will have to look at other options in Spain and England.”

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