Real Madrid’s defence looks strong on paper, but things are not as steady behind the scenes.
PSG exposed Madrid’s defence in the Club World Cup. They scored four goals and for some of them, Raul Asencio and Antonio Rudiger were at fault.
That result sent a shockwave in Madrid and now, the club want to rethink about their defence as Xabi Alonso knows this defence cannot win the Champions League.
Yes, Dean Huijsen was added last month. Yes, Raul Asencio had his big breakthrough last season. But Madrid’s recent collapse at the Club World Cup raised fresh concerns.
They leaked goals against top sides last season. And, to avoid that this season, Xabi Alonso has pushed the club to seek another centre-back before the new campaign begins.
Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate is one option being discussed. The Frenchman has experience and yet to renew his contract with Liverpool.
But he is not the only name under consideration. Real Madrid are looking another French defender from the Premier League who impressed in the Champions League quarter-final last season.
According to MARCA, Real Madrid have set their sights on Arsenal’s William Saliba.
The Spanish club had originally planned to wait until he entered the final year of his contract.
But with his current deal expiring in 2027 and no renewal agreed, that timeline may be changing.
Madrid are now open to making a move this summer. The French international is also said to be open to joining, and could even lower his salary demands to help the deal go through.
That would still make this a very expensive signing. But if the reports are accurate, Madrid seem ready to go big again for one of the Premier League’s best young defenders.
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