Real Madrid are unlikely to make any significant additions during the January transfer window, but this decision could prove to be a costly mistake.
Defensive injuries have plagued the Spanish giants this season, often leaving their backline exposed. Reinforcements in defense are essential if they hope to remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions.
The right-back position has been particularly problematic for Madrid. While Dani Carvajal had an outstanding 2023/24 season, his current campaign has come to an abrupt end due to an ACL injury he sustained in October. With the 32-year-old sidelined for the remainder of the season, Madrid’s options at right-back are severely limited.
Lucas Vazquez is the only other senior right-back in the squad, but the former winger has been inconsistent and unreliable in this role. An injury to Vazquez in November forced manager Carlo Ancelotti to use midfielder Federico Valverde as a makeshift right-back, further highlighting their lack of depth in the position.
Madrid urgently need a dependable and high-performing right-back for the second half of the season. Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold has emerged as a prime target. The England international, who shares a close friendship with Madrid star Jude Bellingham, is out of contract with Liverpool at the end of the current season. While a pre-contract agreement in January is possible, a mid-season move appears unlikely.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong is another potential target. The Dutchman is renowned for his attacking contributions and played a key role in his team’s domestic double last season. Additionally, Manchester United’s Diogo Dalot has reportedly drawn Madrid’s interest. While Dalot offers steadiness and reliability, he may not excite the Santiago Bernabeu faithful.
Madrid also face challenges at centre-back, not due to a lack of quality but because of persistent injuries. David Alaba, out since December 2023, is expected to return in the new year but will need time to regain his form.
Meanwhile, Eder Militao is sidelined for the rest of the season after suffering a second consecutive ACL injury, and Nacho Fernandez left the club on a free transfer in the summer. These setbacks have left Madrid with limited options. Antonio Rudiger has been a consistent presence, but his partners have included makeshift defenders like Aurelien Tchouameni and youngster Raul Asencio.
Potential solutions include former Madrid player Rafa Marin, now at Napoli, who could return on loan.
Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah is another option, with his contract expiring next summer. For a younger prospect, Palmeiras defender Vitor Reis, often compared to Marquinhos, could be a long-term investment.
