Real Madrid seems to be casting a wide net in their search for a new centre-back.
Whenever a rising young star emerges on the scene, one can expect Real Madrid to not be too far behind. The LaLiga giants are always looking for the next best thing no matter what position on the pitch he might play.
We saw that when they signed James Rodriguez when he broke out in the 2014 World Cup and we’re still seeing it today with Kylian Mbappe. Though they aren’t having quite as much luck in acquiring the Frenchman so far.
The latest name to come across their transfer wish list is RB Leipzig centre-back Dayot Upamecano.
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According to Diario AS, manager Zinedine Zidane has asked Real Madrid to take a look at the 21-year-old as he’s become an integral part of Leipzig’s success over the past couple of seasons. Zidane believes he would be a great addition to revitalize the backline.
He apparently has not been impressed by last season’s defensive signing, Eder Militao. Nor does he have much confidence in Nacho Fernandez who has slipped down the depth chart and used more as a last resort.
Holding back Real Madrid is the competition they will undoubtedly face from other clubs. Arsenal and Tottenham are but a few clubs who are also interested in Upamecano with Arsenal already having made a bid that was rejected.
With Sergio Ramos recently turning 34, realistically the club captain only has maybe two seasons left before he hangs it up. Real Madrid is going to need someone to partner Raphael Varane for the long-term.
Upamecano has made it known to Leipzig that he is looking to leave the club despite how important he is for them. His contract ends in 2021 which means Leipzig would need to sell him or risk him leaving on a free.
There is a reason why he’s a highly sought after defender. He’s performed well both in the Bundesliga and Champions League. Should he become available, he’ll be what Matthijs de Ligt was last season. The question then will be which team is capable of splashing the cash and coming to an agreement with Leipzig.