Real Madrid aren't doing any January transfer business with the main focus on strengthening Xabi Alonso's squad this summer. A new creative midfielder looks to be on the cards amid links to Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton and AZ Alkmaar's Kees Smit.
The club's transfer chiefs are also expected to look at bringing a defender to the Estadio Bernabeu. This comes with David Alaba set to depart when his contract expires in June and he might not be the only one.
Antonio Rudiger's future is up in the air with his current deal expiring at the end of the season. The German has endured an injury-ridden campaign and has been linked with Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr.
Confidence is growing over Madrid signing Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck, who is open to a move. But another defender is seemingly available this summer, and Barcelona is leading the race to sign him.
Real Madrid should swoop for Barcelona target
Barca are interested in signing Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven and the Dutch center-back reportedly wants to leave the Premier League club, per SPORT. He is also thought to be keen on a move to Camp Nou.
Van de Ven is one of the English top-flight's best defenders, boasting electric pace and a warrior-esque playing style. He is left-footed which would help replace Alaba or Rudiger and that's why Madrid should consider rivalling their El Clasico rivals for the Netherlands international.
Madrid's current transfer strategy is mainly focused on youth with world class potential. But at 24, Van de Ven has valuable experience including winning the Europa League with Spurs last season.
Van de Ven should be added to Alonso's shortlist of defensive recruits ahead of the summer given he is looking to leave the North London club. If it came down to finances, Los Merengues would be able to blow Barca out of the water.
Van de Ven can replace Rudiger
Rudiger's best days are behind him and parting ways with the 32-year-old seems the right idea this summer. He is dealing with recurring injury problems that have led to him making just nine appearances this season.
Van de Ven boasts similarities to Rudiger with his speed and athleticism, often going on surging runs to help out in transition. We have similarly seen the German venture forward in such a fashion.
The Dutchman could be a leader at the Bernabeu and help Alonso build a new team that leaves behind the Carlo Ancelotti era. The only issue with a potential deal is a likely expensive fee and whether other European clubs compete for his signature.