Real Madrid Reveal List Of Star-Studded Defensive Targets

Real Madrid has put together a star-studded shortlist of centre back targets to replace club talisman Sergio Ramos, according to reports.

AS claim that Bayern Munich stalwart David Alaba tops Madrid’s wish list, while the club also holds an interest in Jules Kounde, Pau Torres and Kalidou Koulibaly.

The departure of Spain international Ramos would bring an end to his 16-year career in the Spanish capital and hand Zinedine Zidane a selection headache in defence.

The club are thought to have offered Alaba €11million (£9.6m) in wages – which is below the €15m (£13.1m) stumped up by Manchester City.  

Zidane’s other options to fill the potential void left behind by Ramos would also require hefty investments, however.

Any move from Koulibaly in the summer may heavily depend on whether Napoli are able to qualify for the Champions League again. In that case, the price of the defender would remain high.

Sevilla man Kounde has also caught Madrid’s eye in the centre of defence over the last couple of seasons. The 22-year-old’s release clause stands at €90m (£79m) and a number of other clubs are also poised to pounce for him.

The final name on the shortlist is Villarreal’s Torres.

Villarreal’s strong financial situation may mean they would be reluctant to lower their €50m (£44m) asking price, however.