Real Madrid Transfers: 5 defenders to target heading into 2021

Tottenham LB Sergio Reguilon

Ferland Mendy is a world-class left back for Real Madrid, but Sergio Reguilon isn’t far behind him in quality. In fact, when both men were in La Liga at the same time in 2019-2020, Reguilon was just as good as Mendy, albeit in a much different role as an attacking left back for Julen Lopetegui’s exciting Sevilla side. Reguilon was brilliant on loan, playing a crucial role in Sevilla’s Europa League triumph, just as Mendy’s defensive work were critical to Real’s La Liga trophy.

The Spanish international is currently at Tottenham, but Real Madrid have a buy-back option that they can exercise. Miguel Gutierrez is an exciting prospect in Castilla, but even he isn’t as exciting as the speedy Reguilon.

What entices me the most about Reguilon is the learning curve. At Sevilla, Reguilon was stellar under Lopetegui as an attacking fullback who showed elite crossing ability. But at Tottenham, Reguilon is learning how to play more defensive under Jose Mourinho, and he’s still been impressive.

Real Madrid can buy Reguilon back for 45 million euros. That’s a steep price to pay in this economy, but how many available left backs are better than Reguilon? Real could sign Reguilon to split playing time with Mendy so that the French international can rest, as Los Blancos desperately need to stop giving minutes to Marcelo at this stage.