La Liga Giants Real Madrid Interested in Arsenal Star Amid Growing Defensive Woes

La Liga Giants Real Madrid Interested in Arsenal Star Amid Growing Defensive Woes

Ero Samson
updated at October 6, 2023 at 9:10 AM
In this article:
Spanish La Liga logo
SPA La Liga
Spain
English Premier League logo
ENG Premier League
England
  • Real Madrid have been faced with loads of defensive frailties in recent times
  • The La Liga club were hit again with a lengthy injury to Eder Militao and resurfacing fitness issues of Alaba
  • Los Blancos are keen on completing the swoop for a defender from the Premier League club

As Real Madrid continues to strengthen their team with Europe's finest talents across the board, one area which continues to suffer is the team's defensive unit.

Carlo Ancelotti's side headed into the 2023/24 season with an identical defensive set-up to last season, barring the addition of academy graduate Fran Garcia.

Real Madrid, Transfers, Saliba, Arsenal, UEFA Champions League
Carlo Ancelotti's Real Madrid side have been faced with loads of defensive injuries. Image: Nick Potts.
Source: Getty Images

The La Liga giants who surprised many with their reluctance to strengthen their defence, were left to rue their decision as early as the 50th minute of their opening game of the season after defender Eder Militao suffered a season-ending knee injury, as reported by Marca.

Furthermore, David Alaba's ongoing fitness issues have left Ancelotti with only two first-team centre defenders, namely Antonio Rudiger and Nacho Fernandez.

Not content with just two central defenders, reports are circulating that the club is considering moving for a Premier League defender.

Real Madrid eyes Premier League defender

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Real Madrid are eager to secure the services of Arsenal's William Saliba.

The 22-year-old French defender has been a standout player for Mikel Arteta's side, bringing enhanced quality and overall balance to Madrid's current defensive lineup.

Although a January transfer for Saliba seems unlikely, the prospect of signing the St Etienne graduate cannot be dismissed. Football Espana reports that the potential transfer fee for the young defender could exceed £100 million.

Bellingham matches Ronaldo's Champions League record

In a previous report, highlighted by Sports Brief, Real Madrid's recent acquisition, Jude Bellingham, achieved a remarkable feat, matching a UEFA Champions League (UCL) record previously held solely by the club's legendary figure, Cristiano Ronaldo.

The talented young midfielder showcased his prowess by netting a goal during the 34th minute of the match, executing a sensational solo run before calmly slotting the ball past goalkeeper Alex Meret.

This exceptional finish secured Bellingham's place on the exclusive list of elite performers for the Spanish giants, alongside none other than Cristiano Ronaldo himself.

Authors
Ero Samson photo
Ero Samson
Samson Ero is a sports journalist with a track record of over five years in the Nigerian media industry. He graduated from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (2021-2023).
Tags
WorldTransfersCarlo Ancelotti