Real Madrid looking at two familiar names to strengthen defence as options narrow

One of the main priorities in the transfer market for Real Madrid for the summer is the signing of a new centre-back.

David Alaba will be leaving as his contract expires, while Antonio Rudiger could also depart and Eder Militao’s physical problems pose a concern.

The Spanish capital giants had identified several players as potential targets to reinforce the position, with the club primarily focusing on soon-to-be free agents for the position.

However, with Marc Guehi signing for Manchester City last month and Dayot Upamecano set to renew at Bayern Munich, Real Madrid are starting to run out of options.

Jacobo Ramon, Joan Martinez emerge as main options

In that regard, AS reports that Real Madrid are keeping two avenues open: going into the market for former defender Jacobo Ramon or dipping into their academy reserves to promote Joan Martinez.

Los Blancos sold Ramon, a homegrown talent, to Como 1907 last season, where he has excelled, much like Nico Paz.

While Real Madrid are already set to re-sign Nico from the Serie A club, they could also do the same with the defender, for whom they have an €8 million buyback option.

Joan Martinez (R) is rated highly at Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Joan Martinez remains a highly-regarded player at Valdebebas. In fact, before he sustained an ACL injury, the teenage defender was even ahead of Raul Asencio in terms of players poised for a first-team breakthrough.

Now, being carefully developed at Castilla, the youngster could earn a promotion to the senior team next season as Real Madrid look to deepen their centre-back reserves.

As far as the Merengues are concerned, the expectation remains that Militao can return to his best level, Dean Huijsen can continue to develop into a key player, and Raul Asencio can be a reliable pillar.

So, they could settle with bringing Ramon back for a small fee or back Martinez from the academy to take up a prominent role.