Real Madrid should go all out for the services of the 24-year-old Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt.
Real Madrid are flying high in the ongoing season despite the injury crisis at the back. They might be doing it just right without a few of their first-team regulars. But the crisis has helped them identify a few key areas that need to be reinforced in the near future.
When it comes to Los Blancos, the focus is always on marquee signings. The Merengues are always on the lookout for their new Galactico and at this point in time, they are linked with Kylian Mbappe. But, they have other concerns as well.
Lack of defensive depth and interest in De Ligt’s services
The lack of depth in their backline is a big headache for Real Madrid at this stage. David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger and Nacho are all on the wrong side of 30. The Spaniard is already 34, but none of them are getting any younger. Eder Militao is the only one who is a part of their long-term plans. As a result, signing a young defender is a high priority.
David Alaba and Eder Militao are both currently out injured. The duo has been out of action for the majority of the season, and their long-term absence has forced Real Madrid to think about the future of their defence. These injuries as well as suspensions have forced them to start a game without none of their frontline centre-back available.
Such a situation has forced Real Madrid to consider the idea of signing a new defender, and Matthijs de Ligt is one of the names on their radar. The 24-year-old might not have had the best of times at Bayern Munich, but he can surely turn things around. And, he could be one of the stars of the Spanish giants.
Targeting Matthijs de Ligt: A Strategic Move
De Ligt was 19 when he led Ajax into the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League. The Dutch international was already a sensation as a teenager. He is exactly the kind of player Real Madrid want. They have always had a dressing room full of leaders, and that is why they tend to win major trophies consistently.
He will be a perfect fit for their system. The Dutch centre-back will bolster their squad in different ways. Not only will they get a young world-class defender but also a leader with a proven track record.
Forming a Dynamic Defensive Duo
Eder Militao will be an integral part of Real Madrid’s plans moving ahead but they do need to sign someone who can form a dependable partnership with the Brazil international. The idea of pairing de Ligt with the returning Militao who has been out injured since the start of the season seems to present an exciting prospect for the team in white.
The heart of their defence could be sorted for years to come if they can manage to land the Bayern Munich defender at the club. Both are young, they are already world-class players and they possess the necessary attributes as well as attitude to thrive in the demanding environment of the Santiago Bernabeu. Their partnership could provide the foundation for a young team that seeks to continue dominating domestic and European football.
Current situation at Bayern Munich
His situation at Bayern Munich suggests that he could be available for a bargain price. While De Ligt had an impressive debut season at the German club, a lot has changed since the start of the 2023/24 season.
The former Ajax skipper has gone down the pecking order at the club and he has only had limited game time so far. The 24-year-old is not happy with his current situation and will most probably look for a move elsewhere. If he wishes to leave, Bayern are unlikely to stand in his way.
🚨 Matthijs de Ligt situation remains one to watch for the summer transfer window.
Dutch defender didn't start for Bayern vs Leverkusen and was asked about his physical condition: "Fit enough to start? Top fit!", he replied to BILD. pic.twitter.com/M2RCu7gygn
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 12, 2024
Arsenal and Manchester United also keen
While Real Madrid are keen on having him in their ranks, they are not the only ones interested in him. Even Manchester United and Arsenal would love to have him in their ranks.
The Gunners have done a great job so far under Mikel Arteta, but they need more firepower in their ranks to take the next step. Arsenal will look to add world-class players to their ranks so that they can push for all major titles. Strengthening their defence is a priority and de Ligt is one of their targets.
Meanwhile, Manchester United have also struggled at the back because of numerous injuries. They want to reinforce their backline, part ways with a few of their senior players and add young faces who can take them forward. The Red Devils are quite serious about their pursuit of the 24-year-old and as per reports, they are leading the race for his signatures.
Real Madrid face stiff competition for the former Juventus centre-back’s signatures. Manchester United and Arsenal will surely make life difficult for them. But the Spanish giants have a pull of their own given the kind of success they have had in European football.
Their dominance in the Champions League and the star-studded squad could squad de Ligt’s decision in favour of the Spanish giants. His arrival will not only be a strategic move to address the team’s defensive deficiencies, but it will also help them build for the long run.
