Real Madrid want to sign defender despite Manchester United agreement

Real Madrid might need to strengthen their ranks at centre-back this summer. Antonio Rudiger was one of the best defenders in the world last season. But he is past 30 years of age, as is David Alaba. On the other hand, Nacho Fernandez has left the club this summer. And Eder Militao is coming off of a long-term injury and it remains to be seen if that has had any effects on his overall game.

So, do not be surprised if Real Madrid try to sign a centre-back this summer. In fact, it looks like a high-profile name is on their radar.

As reported by Manchester Evening News earlier in July, Manchester United had verbally agreed personal terms with Bayern Munich's Matthijs de Ligt. They have an existing relationship with his agent, Rafaela Pimenta.

But according to TEAMtalk, reports in Spain suggest that Real Madrid are looking to take advantage of De Ligt’s desire to leave Bayern Munich. He is said to be the ideal candidate to add to the centre-back ranks. The La Liga giants are apparently willing to put up approximately £33 million to fund the signing.

Real Madrid want to sign defender despite Manchester United agreement

It is believed that Manchester United will need some players to leave before they can make a move for De Ligt. That leaves a window of opportunity open for Real Madrid.

Interestingly, Manchester United ended up signing Leny Yoro earlier this summer. The Frenchman was believed to be Real Madrid's number one centre-back target of the window. Could we see the opposite happen this time around?

Of course, De Ligt was once the most highly-rated centre-back talent in all of Europe. But his career trajectory has not gone according to expectations since his move away from Ajax. An average spell at Juventus has been followed by an even more underwhelming one at Bayern Munich. What's next?