Real Madrid’s lack of depth in the centre-back department has once again been exposed this season.
With David Alaba still not recovering from his ACL injury and Jesus Vallejo out of favour, Carlo Ancelotti has had to constantly rely on the combination of Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger, while using Aurelien Tchouameni as a makeshift defender whenever needed.
As such, Real Madrid have made it a point to recruit a new centre-back in the summer transfer window, with a number of players already identified as potential targets.
Aymeric Laporte still a person of interest
Now, according to AS, Real Madrid still retain a strong interest in former Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte, who plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
Laporte, who was an integral part of the Spain squad that won the UEFA Euro 2024, had been linked with Real Madrid during the summer as well, but nothing came of it.
However, recent reports emerged claiming that the Merengues still have him on their list as a possible reinforcement for January if they decide to sign a new centre-back.
Now, while the idea of signing a new defender in the winter has seemingly cooled down, Laporte is still seen as an option to strengthen the backline for next season.
The interest in the 30-year-old stems from the fact that he is well-versed in Spanish and European football and would not take up a non-EU slot in the squad. Added to it is the defender’s desire to leave Saudi Arabia.
As per the report, Ancelotti already gave the green light to the possible signing of Laporte last summer itself. So his arrival would be welcomed by the coaching staff.
However, Laporte would need to take a major cut on his current €25 million annual salary if he were to move to Real Madrid.
