Real Madrid is going through a tough period. The club’s defensive woes were once again highlighted in their Champions League loss against Manchester City.
Despite going 1-0 up in the 28th minute, a rather familiar scenario unfolded as the Citizens scored twice in quick succession before the first half ended, with the match ultimately finishing 2-1.
Real Madrid has suffered from injuries to key defenders in recent seasons. Eder Militão, who was seen as the next leader at the back for Los Blancos and rightly so given his performances when available, has been sidelined for long spells over the past two years. He was absent against Manchester City as well, along with other major names.
Nevertheless, Real Madrid did bring in Dean Huijsen to strengthen their defensive unit, but it seems that isn’t enough. So clearly, the club needs to add more reinforcements in the near future, especially with David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger's contracts set to expire at the end of this season and the ongoing crisis at the back.
Several names have already been linked as potential candidates, including Ibrahima Konaté, Dayot Upamecano, and Marc Guehi, among others. However, here are three more centre-backs that Real Madrid hasn’t considered yet but should:
3 center backs Real Madrid must start considering
Micky Van de Ven
Van de Ven has caught the eyes of many with his performances in this campaign. The Dutch international is fast, reliable, and stands at 6 ft 4 in, offering aerial superiority at the back.
In addition to his defensive contributions for Tottenham this season, which include 44 blocks and being dribbled past only four times, he has also scored six goals across all competitions — a remarkable feat for a centre-back — one that will certainly remind Real Madrid fans of Sergio Ramos, who needs no introduction.
At just 24 years old, Van de Ven in all probability, is yet to reach his prime, making him a strong option for Los Blancos. The only issue Real Madrid might face if they target him is his long-term contract with Tottenham, which runs until 2029.
Giorgio Scalvini
Scalvini is another youngster who could be a really good option for Real Madrid at the back. The Italian international has stayed at Atalanta to develop further, despite interest from several top clubs during the summer transfer window following his performances last season.
The 22-year-old centre-back is solid defensively and ticks all the right boxes. That said, it’s important to note that Scalvini is still in the development stage and should be seen as an option for the future rather than a regular starter from the get-go.
Injuries are a bit of a concern with Scalvini, who has been on and off the sidelines lately with recurring issues, which have limited his playing time this campaign with him making just five appearances so far this season. That’s something to keep in mind as well.
William Pacho
Paris Saint-Germain are currently one of the top teams in the world. They seem to have the best players at their disposal, such as Ousmane Dembélé and Vitinha. Pacho has slowly made his way onto that list as well.
The Ecuador international has quickly emerged as an important member of PSG’s squad under Luis Enrique. He has appeared in 17 matches this season and even scored two goals.
It’s true that the relationship between Real Madrid and PSG is currently strained, making a transfer between the two clubs a bit far-fetched. Inspite of that, Pacho’s qualities and potential make him an option Los Blancos should definitely consider.