Real Madrid’s lack of defensive depth has become a major talking point and the issue is something that the reigning champions of Spain and Europe must address at the earliest.
While it is not entirely ruled out that a new central defender will arrive in the upcoming January transfer window, Los Blancos will definitely sign at least one player for the position in the summer of 2025.
Names like Castello Lukeba, Vitor Reis, and Jonathan Tah have all been mentioned as possible targets for the Spanish capital heavyweights.
Virgil van Dijk an option?
While there has been no direct interest thus far, Liverpool defensive mainstay Virgil van Dijk could also be an option that Real Madrid could consider in the summer, given as his contract at the Premier League club expires at the end of the season.
Real Madrid have previously pounced on opportunities to sign established stars such as David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger for free to reinforce their defence.
Van Dijk, to that end, could be an interesting option along the same lines and after the Reds’ 2-0 win over Real Madrid last night, the Netherlands veteran was asked if he would be open to joining the Merengues.
“Are Madrid really looking for centre-backs? They have Rudiger…” Van Dijk began, before the reporter pressed further.
The defender then clarified that his focus is entirely on Liverpool’s next match in the Premier League, which happens to be against Manchester City.
“I am completely focused on the game against Manchester City next weekend, nothing else,” he clarified.
Real Madrid have a strong interest in signing Van Dijk’s Liverpool teammate, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will also be a free agent in the summer.
Whether they take note of the Dutch centre-back’s situation and make a move for him as well will be interesting to see.