Real Madrid's defense has been one of the major concerns throughout the season. Long-term absences have affected performance. Militao fell in August, and Carvajal hasn't been available at various times either.
Florentino Pérez decided not to go to the market, relying on internal resources. However, the improvised solutions haven't been up to the task. The result has been an irregular campaign, with significant disappointments in Europe and the Copa del Rey.
Antonio Rüdiger, a Complicated Future at Real Madrid
To make matters worse, the most solid pillar in defense won't be available at the start of the next season. Antonio Rüdiger was sent off after the incidents in the Copa final, and the sanction is already known: he will be out for 6 matches. Additionally, he just underwent knee surgery, so his absence will be even longer.
The German's absence forces urgent decisions. Raúl Asencio, one of the revelations of the year, will need a new partner in the heart of the defense. This time, they can't look the other way.
Raúl Asencio Awaits Company at Real Madrid
Several names have circulated for weeks, but Real Madrid already seems to have it clear. The chosen profile combines youth, talent, and future projection. Additionally, he has already shown his quality in Italian soccer.
It's Dean Huijsen, Bournemouth's defender. Huijsen has excelled with personality and a lot of maturity that has led him to the Spanish National Team. His imposing physique and good ball distribution have caught the attention of all of Europe.
Dean Huijsen, the Center-Back Liked at Bernabéu
Florentino has already initiated contacts to assess his transfer. The transfer cost would be around 50 million euros. It doesn't seem like a complicated operation if the interest is firm and they act quickly.
At Bernabéu, they believe Huijsen would fit very well with Raúl Asencio. It would be a young pair, with a future, and that fits the philosophy of the new project. Additionally, Rüdiger's sanction accelerates all the planned moves.
Real Madrid: Rebuilding the Defense Is a Priority
The coaching staff believes the agreement must be closed before the preseason. The idea is for Huijsen to join from the start. With that, they can work on his understanding with Raúl Asencio from day one.
Antonio Rüdiger's sanction forces Real Madrid to move quickly. Raúl Asencio needs company, and Dean Huijsen is already close to wearing white. A new cycle is about to begin at Santiago Bernabéu.