Report: Real Madrid, Florentino Perez target one of Premier League's most expensive defenders in quest for a super team

Real Madrid‘s injury crisis has thrust defensive reinforcements to the forefront of their transfer plans, significantly accelerating the Florentino Pérez plan to pursuit of Liverpool’s Alexander-Arnold and potentially reshaping their squad for a “super team” push.

The club’s sporting management, already actively exploring potential January transfer window acquisitions, now views immediate action as absolutely necessary. Recent underwhelming performances and the evident imbalance within the squad have underscored the urgency of addressing these deficiencies.

What was initially considered a prudent long-term plan has rapidly transformed into a pressing need for immediate upgrades.

The recent results, coupled with the tangible evidence on the pitch, make it clear that these reinforcements are no longer merely desirable, but essential for maintaining Real Madrid’s competitiveness.

The urgent need for a right-back

The situation reached a critical juncture with Dani Carvajal’s injury, leaving Lucas Vázquez as the only specialist right-back until mid-July. Internal assessments of deploying Éder Militão in that position proved unconvincing, and the club is unwilling to place undue pressure on their promising youth players by thrusting them into such a high-stakes situation.

The decision to prioritize the development of their younger talent, allowing them time to mature and progress beyond Youth League matches, leaves the club needing an immediate, high-caliber solution for the right-back position. This decisive action underscores the gravity of the situation and the club’s commitment to both short-term success and long-term player development.

Alexander-Arnold: A top target, but a complex acquisition

Alexander-Arnold has emerged as a prime target, initially envisioned as a potential acquisition for the summer of 2025. However, the unforeseen injury crisis has dramatically accelerated Real Madrid’s pursuit. Securing the Liverpool star, however, won’t be a straightforward endeavor.

Liverpool, not facing any immediate financial constraints, and possessing a capable replacement in Connor Bradley, are under no pressure to sell. Furthermore, three key players—Alexander-Arnold himself, Virgil van Dijk, and Mohamed Salah—are nearing the end of their contracts.

While Liverpool anticipates retaining at least two of these stars, the possibility of pre-contract agreements beginning January 1st adds another layer of complexity. Players could commit to other teams, potentially impacting their willingness to remain at Anfield beyond the current season.