Real Madrid analysis: Which defensive option would strengthen Los Blancos?

HUDDERSFIELD, ENGLAND - AUGUST 11: Marcos Alonso of Chelsea looks on during the Premier League match between Huddersfield Town and Chelsea at the John Smith's Stadium on August 11, 2018 in Huddersfield, England. (Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Getty Images)
HUDDERSFIELD, ENGLAND - AUGUST 11: Marcos Alonso of Chelsea looks on during the Premier League match between Huddersfield Town and Chelsea at the John Smith's Stadium on August 11, 2018 in Huddersfield, England. (Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Getty Images)

Real Madrid are busy preparing for the new La Liga season, which kicks off for them on Sunday. Should they be considering a serious pursuit for Toby Alderweireld?

Real Madrid were recently linked with a move for Marcos Alonso, and while that would bring positives and negatives, Toby Alderweireld is the better option. The Belgian has been linked with a move away from London for quite some time now, but nothing has materialized as of yet. And though things are set to get even harder should Madrid choose to pursue him, Alderweireld is still the best option on the market.

If Real Madrid do decide to go back in for the Tottenham man, they may face competition in Bayern Munich. The Bavarians are reportedly interested in acquiring him to replace the imminently departing Jerome Boateng. That said, if either club is to pull through and sign him, it will take some some doing. I don’t think Tottenham can be persuaded to sell, and rightly so.

It looks more likely that Real Madrid will pursue Marcos Alonso, especially following their UEFA Super League loss to Atletico Madrid. That said, let’s compare the two…

Marcos Alonso – Most likely

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Marcos Alonso is yet to embark on life under Maurizio Sarri, as only one game has been played of Chelsea’s Premier League football. But Julen Lopetegui is familiar with his countryman, and he feels like he could strengthen the Spanish capital.

Alonso endured a good spell under Antonio Conte, with many positive signs being shown. He is able to control the left flank and make it his own, often bombing forward to help with attacking play.

He has learned to be incredibly versatile, which would help his cause in making the first team should he jump ship.

Toby Alderweireld – Wildcard

Although it’s a complete wildcard, there is many ways in which Alderweireld would strengthen Los Blancos. The main one of them being squad depth, which will be critical if they are to keep up with Barcelona and co.

With the World Cup recently finishing, and Raphael Varane featuring in the final, it may take him while to recuperate and hit full fitness. Alderweireld is a very clean defender, often winning the ball back with no disruption from the referee. His range of pass is also quite impressive for a defender.

My verdict

Tottenham won’t sell, but Chelsea could be tempted. The difficulty lies within the English transfer window being closed early this season, meaning Premier League clubs would be reluctant to sell irreplaceable players.

Of the two, Alderweireld is undeniably the better option. But if Lopetegui feels like Alonso is the better option, or that he’s more accessible, then who am I to criticize?

What do you think of the Marcos Alonso rumors?