Real Madrid might be on the lookout for a new right-back this summer as doubts grow over Dani Carvajal's future. The Spaniard was furious after he was left on the bench in his side's 2-0 win over Valencia on Sunday (February 8th).
Carvajal's contract expires in June and the club are reportedly discussing a potential right-back signing. The Athletic reports that there are "doubts" from both the board and the player about a contract extension.
If the 34-year-old leaves he will need replacing not least because he is Madrid's captain and has been one of the most important players on and off the pitch. There are three potential replacements who seem feasible this summer to give Trent Alexander-Arnold competition.
Jose Angel - Sevilla
If Madrid intend to replace Carvajal with a player with proven La Liga experience then Jose Angel could be the man for the job. The 24-year-old is impressing this season having made 24 appearances across competitions, scoring one goal and providing three assists.
There are already reports claiming that Angel is on the club's shortlist and his current €12 million valuation (via Transfermarkt) seems more than justifiable. He is a product of Sevilla's academy and is versatile, as he can also play center back and left back.
Angel will have two years left on his contract this summer, which could help in negotiations, given it's the opportune time for his club to cash in. His familiarility with Spanish football makes him the top contender to replace Carvajal.
Malo Gusto - Chelsea
There has been plenty of talk of Madrid swooping for Premier League players this summer and Malo Gusto is one of them. Reports claim that the French right-back is being eyed by the La Liga giants amid a fine spell at Stamford Bridge.
Gusto often plays backup to Reece James and this status might be factored into a decision made by the player over a potential move. He has caught the eye with consistent performances this season, appearing 32 times across competitions, posting two goals and three assists.
The 22-year-old is tied to the Premier League giants until 2030 so there is no need for the Blues to sell anytime soon. But he might feel he has an opportunity to become a regular starter at the Bernabeu and the heir to Carvajal, one of the club's all-time greats.
Diogo Dalot - Manchester United
Another Premier League star who Madrid have in their sights as Diogo Dalot and he has long been linked with a move to the Bernabeu. The Manchester United right-back has returned to form under Michael Carrick and his displays haven't gone unnoticed.
Reports claim that United might be open to a sale at the right price and the 26-year-old will have two years on his contract this summer. He has appeared 25 times across competitions this season, managing one goal and three assists.
If Perez were to ask Cristiano Ronaldo who is the ideal Carvajal replacement he'd likely propose Dalot. The iconic former Los Blancos forward is a massive fan of his Portuguese compatriot.