Perez kicks off second 'Galacticos' era

Real Madrid will continue to target ’galacticos’ after completing the £59m capture of Brazil playmaker Kaka.

Kaka last night joined Madrid from AC Milan as president Florentino Perez – who recently returned for a second spell – gave the strongest indication yet that he intends to revive his policy of signing world stars which previously saw the likes of Luis Figo, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo and David Beckham arrive at the Bernabeu.

Kaka is the first of the second generation although he could soon be followed to the Spanish capital by the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and David Villa.

Perez has already spoken of his desire to sign Manchester United winger Ronaldo although any approach to the Old Trafford club is likely to be given short shrift.

He told Sky Italia: “We are always thinking about great players.

“Cristiano Ronaldo and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are among other great players around the world.

“We all know that these are players that we would like to buy but they can’t all come.”

Perez’s comments are likely to infuriate United, who voiced their displeasure last summer at Madrid’s public pursuit of the Portugal international.

And Perez insisted any move for Ronaldo this time would be done via the right channels.

He added: “Ronaldo is a great player who we would like to bring to the club but first we have to speak to Manchester United because the important thing is for us to maintain a good rapport with everyone.”

Inter Milan striker Ibrahimovic is another target, although Madrid may have to compete with arch rivals Barcelona for the Sweden international, while Villa has also been earmarked to boost the front-line.

Spanish daily Marca claim Perez has an agreement in place with Villa’s club Valencia, whose financial position means they are unlikely to reject an offer which comes close to their valuation.

Money certainly does not seem to be a problem at Madrid, as shown by the big-money capture of Kaka.

The former Santos star is excited at Madrid’s transfer plans.

“Real Madrid intend to build a great team, along with historic players such as Raul and Casillas. We will make history again, both in Spain and Europe. I guess the sporting project is very good.

“The president is already making contact (with potential signings) and is putting together a competitive team, one which will try to once again become champions. That’s why I chose Madrid.”