Real Madrid make key transfer decision following Dani Carvajal’s horror injury: Reports
Real Madrid have decided not to sign a new right-back in January following Dani Carvajal's injury, according to AS. The Spanish defender ruptured his ACL during Los Blancos' 2-0 win over Villarreal and will undergo surgery to address the situation.
Carvajal is not expected to return to action this season, which will be a huge blow to Los Blancos' plans. The situation has prompted rumors of a possible emergency signing at the turn of the year.
However, it is now believed that the La Liga giants won't look for solutions in the winter transfer market. Instead, Real Madrid have decided to keep their trust in Lucas Vazquez, who has deputized admirably for Carvajal in recent times.
The former winger has rediscovered himself in the right-back position over the years and was crucial to the club's success last season. Vazquez ended the campaign with three goals and eight assists from 38 games across competitions.
The Spaniard signed a new contract with Los Blancos over the summer, and will now be handed the task of covering at right-back for the rest of the campaign.
Vazquez was similarly called to action in the 2020/21 campaign, where he started in 34 of 35 games during Carvajal's absence due to injury. Los Blancos are confident that the player can repeat the trick once again this season.
Will Real Madrid move for Trent Alexander-Arnold in 2025?
Real Madrid are already considering a move for Trent Alexander-Arnold at the end of this season. The English right-back has apparently been identified as the ideal long-term replacement for Dani Carvajal.
Alexander-Arnold's contract with Liverpool expires next summer and he hasn't agreed to a new deal yet. The 25-year-old remains heavily linked with Real Madrid, who are expected to push for a free transfer in 2025.
The Merseyside club are unlikely to give up without a fight as they consider him a key part of their plans. The Englishman rose through the ranks at Anfield and has appeared 319 times for the Reds so far, registering 19 goals and 83 assists.
Recent reports have suggested that Los Blancos could move for the player in January, although those reports now appear wide of the mark. However, Liverpool could be open to Trent Alexander-Arnold's exit this winter if he continues to stall a new deal.