Toni Kroos played with some of the best central defenders in Real Madrid's history during his legendary spell with the Spanish giants. Sergio Ramos, Raphael Varane and Antonio Rudiger were among those to have shared a locker room with the German.
Madrid are on the lookout for a new center-back who they can rely on to be a long-term member of the backline. Some of Europe's most highly-rated defenders have been linked as of late.
A final decision over a potential defensive reinforcement will be made at the end of the season. If Kroos had his way he might just be backing a German compatriot to be the chosen one.
Toni Kroos waxes lyrical about European defender
Germany are gearing up for the 2026 World Cup and Julian Nagelsmann has decisions to make in defense. One name whom Kroos has praised four months ahead of the tournament is Inter Milan's Yann Bisseck.
Kroos gave a glowing verdict of Bisseck who has recently reclaimed his place in the Inter team. He said on his Einfach mal Luppen podcast (via SempreInter):
“He had already impressed me last year. He’s an excellent central defender, especially for what he transmits. He’s one of those players you don’t want to play against, or at least not face in duels."
Bisseck has been impressive this season for Inter and put in several eye-catching displays. He has appeared 21 times across competitions, posting one goal and two assists.
The 25-year-old has been important for the Nerazzurri in their bid to win the Serie A title. He's won 2.6 (57%) of his ground duels and 2.3 (62%) of his aerial duels.
Madrid need a defender who is dominant in and out of possession while reliable in the air. The Germany international ticks all the boxes and is already being targeted by one of Europe's biggest clubs.
Real Madrid should rival Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich have been keeping an eye on Bisseck as the Germans look to strengthen their defense. Dayot Upamecano has opted to extend his contract with Vincent Kompany's Bavarians but this hasn't stopped the Bundesliga giants from monitoring Inter's center-back.
According to Sport1, Bisseck is on Bayern's radar and they are exploring a potential deal for the Cologne-born defender. There's no word on how much he might cost but it probably wouldn't be an expensive deal given the Serie A club have struggled with finances in recent years.
Once a potential fee comes to light there will be a better understanding of whether signing the German is feasible. But if he isn't too pricey he should definitely be considered by Florentino Perez's transfer chiefs.