Roque Oller

A look at the defensive options  on Real Madrid's wish list

WANTED

CENTRE-BACK

With Éder Militao already sidelined by the same injury, David Alaba’s ACL  tear has left Real Madrid with two  fit centre-backs: Rüdiger and Nacho.

To remedy that shortfall, Madrid  are considering dipping into the transfer market. These are the central defenders on Los Blancos’ radar.

Gonçalo Inácio

Sporting CP

The 22-year-old is already a starter  for both Sporting and Portugal. A forceful aerial presence, he’s tough in the tackle and distributes the ball well.

Inácio has a €60m release clause, but Sporting are willing to sell him for €45m plus €15 in add-ons. Manchester United are also very keen.

Antonio Silva

Benfica

Silva’s physique is one of his key strengths: he’s quick and strong.  He’s behind Inácio in his development, but Madrid are firm admirers.

Silva would seemingly be tougher  to prise from Benfica’s clutches: the buy-out clause in the 20-year-old’s contract has been set at €100m.

Giorgio Scalvini

Atalanta

A player generating huge excitement in Italy, Scalvini’s very good on the ball, despite his 6ft 4in frame. He’s also very hard for forwards to beat one-on-one.

The 20-year-old would likely be the cheapest of Real Madrid’s three defensive targets, but would still fetch somewhere between €40m and €50m.

Madrid are eyeing a January deal. Right now, Ferland Mendy and Aurélien Tchouaméni are the only other potential centre-backs in the squad.

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