THE NEW Real Madrid could well embark on their second golden age in their club's history.

Forget the first group of Galacticos led by Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo and David Beckham almost a decade ago.

That was good, but it wasn't magical.

Sure, they won a few titles, but somehow, the way they were bought during Florentino Perez's first attempt suggested that the glamorous choices overshadowed the more important question of whether the names actually strengthened the team in key departments.

The first time I read about Real Madrid's legend that was kicked off with the arrival of the great Alfredo di Stefano in the 1950s, it sounded mythical.

Together with Raymond Kopa, Gento, Ferenc Puskas, they all seemed larger than life.

Today, Real have signed Cristiano Ronaldo on the wings, Kaka as the attacking midfielder and Karim Benzema as the striker, who's also capable of rotating with Kaka.

All larger than life personalities.

If Xabi Alonso is snatched away successfully from Liverpool, that would complete a diamond of big names at the top of their game.

It would also make complete sense in terms of tactical strengthening.

Revolutionise

Perez's advisers like Zidane have helped him get it right this time on paper at least.

In reality, all the signings are not one-trick ponies like Beckham. They epitomise the modern footballer who can further revolutionise the way the Beautiful Game is played this century.

And everything in my heart and head tells me that we may be watching the second golden age of Real Madrid taking shape as you read their progress in the coming weeks.

The Real Madrid phenomenon of the late 1950s and early 60s collected a magical six European Cup wins out of their grand total of nine. It could well be No. 10 soon.

I think this is what Perez and his Galacticos Mark II are after. A true footballing legacy again that will not be repeated for a few decades.

Something that not even Barcelona or Manchester United could ever do for a sustained period.

Real and Perez are aiming for something for future generations of fans to reflect on when they read about their achievements decades from now.

I can't help but have the same feeling I had when I first learnt about them. That is, the myth of Real Madrid.