Real Madrid Transfers: 3 affordable CBs to keep an eye on this summer
Real Madrid seem to be settled at the center back position, even with uncertainty surrounding the futures of Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane. Los Blancos were without both superstar players this past week for two Champions League fixtures against Liverpool and El Clasico. Nacho Fernandez and Eder Militao starred in their absence, giving Madridistas a sense of both short and long-term security.
Although David Alaba is struggling mightily this season, he can come in as a replacement for Ramos. Even so, if Real lose both Ramos and Varane, they may be in the market for a center back this summer. Big names like Jules Kounde and Pau Torres should be at the top of Real Madrid’s list, but in case they cannot afford those two, here are three affordable young alternatives.
And by “affordable”, these three players all have a Transfermarkt value below 30 million euros, whereas Torres and Koune are valued at a minimum of 50 million euros (and will surely go for more than that).
Dortmund CB Dan-Axel Zagadou
The first name on this list is a bit of a project. Dan-Axel Zagadou has been dealing with injuries, which have derailed the start of his career at Borussia Dortmund. Knowing what Real Madrid have to go through right now, the injuries are a huge red flag. But they are the only thing keeping Zagadou affordable and potentially making him an achievable target.
Zagadou was once one of the most promising prospects in France, spoken about by some Madridistas as a player to keep an eye on a couple of years ago after impressing for both the youth national team and for BVB in the Bundesliga.
A move to Real is unlikely, but Zagadou could be a worthy gamble. He is great in the air, strong in the tackle, and is good with the ball at his feet. Zagadou will need confidence and health. And that makes him risky. If Dortmund cannot sign him to an extension and if he can stay healthy, Zagadou could be a world-class addition to somebody’s defense. He is still just 21, so nobody should be writing him off yet.
Since this list is about affordability, there will be an issue with each player on this list. In Zagadou’s case, it is his injury history.