For Real Madrid, as the season progresses into its middle stages, the team's competitive form has gradually reached its peak. In the eyes of outsiders, Ancelotti's team is still one of the strongest contenders for the championship in various events this season. However, objectively speaking, the "trump card" that Real Madrid relies on most to win the championship at present is the championship experience of these players and Ancelotti's tactical level. If we simply look at the depth of the lineup, they do not have a significant advantage compared to their competitors, and even in some positions, Real Madrid's player reserves are very thin. Therefore, in this winter transfer window, Real Madrid is expected to welcome several important signings in a row.
In the defensive line, Militao's injury undoubtedly had a significant impact on the team, directly leaving only one reliable central defender, Rudiger. In the first half of the season, this German international was the backbone of the defense, performing at a very high level whether paired with Joaquin or young Raul Asensio. However, considering that he is already 31 years old, if he cannot play due to injuries or other factors, Real Madrid's defensive efficiency may suffer a cliff-like decline. In addition, although Alaba has just recovered from a long-term injury, it is still unknown how much his competitive state can recover. This makes Real Madrid's recruitment of central defenders imminent.
Originally, Real Madrid hoped to sign a top-level player with outstanding abilities in the winter window, including Bastoni, Lukeba and other players who once appeared on the team's recruitment list. However, on the one hand, since these players are key players in their respective teams, the other party is reluctant to let them leave during the mid-season; on the other hand, even if the other party agrees to start transfer negotiations, Real Madrid will need to pay a high transfer fee. Spending such intensity on the defensive line does not meet the expectations of Florentino, the "leader" of Real Madrid. In this situation, he turned his attention to those young central defenders with high potential.
According to Marca, Dean Hausen, who plays for Bournemouth, has been favored by Ancelotti, and the latter has personally selected to sign this high-potential central defender. Dean Hausen is 1.97 meters tall and has excellent aerial ball defense capabilities, averaging 2.1 successful headers per game. In addition, he can also complete an average of 1.2 tackles, 1.3 interceptions, and 3.9 clearances on the defensive end. On the German transfer market, Dean Hausen's value is 18 million euros. Considering the player's age, potential, and premium factors, Real Madrid hopes to sign him for about 30 million euros.
In the defensive midfield position, the lack of an excellent organizing player has always been a "hard injury" for the team this season. In the past schedule, Ceballos performed well, but objectively speaking, compared with Toni Kroos, there are obvious gaps in his ability to read the game, passing vision, creativity, etc. According to Spanish media reports, Real Madrid is brewing to sign Zubimendi. Judging from the technical characteristics, this Spanish international has very outstanding abilities on both offense and defense, and his style is considered similar to Rodri. It is reported that Real Madrid intends to directly activate the clause of the 60 million euro buyout clause in Zubimendi's contract to promote the winter window joining of this "Little Rodri".
The right-back position is another position that Real Madrid urgently needs to strengthen. Real Madrid's recruitment target is also very clear, and it is Arnold. According to Spanish media Relevo, regarding his future, Arnold has recently made it clear that he will give up renewing his contract with the team. Thereafter, Real Madrid also officially notified Liverpool that they will start contract negotiations with Arnold. At present, this transfer deal has been settled. Real Madrid has basically reached an agreement with Arnold on his personal treatment and contract duration, and Real Madrid is about to officially sign this wing worth 75 million euros. Arnold will report to the Bernabeu Stadium at the end of this season. (The pictures come from the Internet. If there is any infringement, please contact us to delete it)