Real Madrid plotting move for two key defensive targets as Carlo Ancelotti’s look to bolster squad: Reports
Real Madrid are reportedly planning on making an attempt to sign two defenders in either January or next summer. They have identified Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jonathan Tah as their two main targets.
Los Blancos are dealing with some big issues in defense at the moment. While Eder Militao returned from an ACL injury last season, he is currently injured again. Meanwhile, David Alaba is also recovering from an ACL injury and is 32 years old. They also parted ways with Nacho Fernandez in the summer.
On top of the problems in central defense, right-back Dani Carvajal has also suffered an ACL injury and is out for the season. Moreover, academy star Joan Martinez also suffered an ACL injury in pre-season.
Hence, as per Spanish outlet SER (via Madrid Universal), manager Carlo Ancelotti and Director of Football Santiago Solari are keen on potential January incoming. They are looking to sign defenders and have identified Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jonathan Tah as key targets.
The duo are in the final years of their respective contracts at their current clubs. Alexander-Arnold has been linked with Real Madrid for a while now and appears set to leave Liverpool next year. Meanwhile, Tah was linked with Bayern Munich in the summer but ended up staying at Bayer Leverkusen. He's likely to leave next year as well.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez isn't too keen on signing players in January, as per the aforementioned report. If the management does convince him, the transfer fee will be capped at €30 million. They can also agree on pre-contracts with Alexander-Arnold and Tah for potential transfers next summer.
Real Madrid target Jonathan Tah confirmed Bayer Leverkusen exit next summer
Jonathan Tah's current contract with Bayer Leverkusen is set to expire next summer. He recently confirmed that he will not sign a new contract and is looking for a new challenge. He said:
“I’m NOT gonna sign a new deal at Bayer Leverkusen. My decision is made.
“I will give my best until the end here and then we will see about my future club. But my decision is to go and try different experience."
Tah, 28, played a key role in Bayer Leverkusen's Invincible Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal triumphs last season. He made 48 appearances across competitions and also contributed six goals and one assist. He's also made 10 appearances across competitions this season.
Apart from Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich have also been linked with his signature.