Real Madrid's defeat in the Spanish Super Cup against FC Barcelona highlighted the white team's weaknesses in several key positions. The most notable of all is the right-back position, one of the main concerns for Carlo Ancelotti and Florentino Pérez. However, there are important updates in this regard, with a possible solution that will arrive in the future, although it won't be immediate.
Madrid's Defensive Problems
The Spanish Super Cup made it clear that Real Madrid still has issues in its defensive line, especially in the center-back position and at right-back. In the first position, the recovery of David Alaba is a hope to improve defensive stability.
Additionally, if Ancelotti bets on Raúl Asencio, a defender with great potential, the team could find answers in the center of the defense. However, where Real Madrid has an even more urgent challenge is at right-back.
Lucas Vázquez, converted into a defender after Dani Carvajal's injury, hasn't met expectations. Although his work in attack remains valuable, he's shown significant defensive shortcomings, especially when facing high-quality opponents.
The Option of Alexander Arnold: a Solution for June?
Florentino Pérez has considered various options to strengthen the right-back position and there's news that has given hope to Madrid fans. British right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, one of the best in his position, could be signed by Real Madrid in June when his contract with Liverpool terminates. Although the player is highly sought after, Madrid has reached a verbal agreement with Alexander-Arnold's camp. They have ensured that the transfer will be finalized by the end of the season.
The agreement won't be immediate, as Liverpool refuses to negotiate in the winter market. In fact, Real Madrid's idea is to wait until June 30, when the defender becomes a free agent. At that time, he can sign with Madrid without the need to pay a transfer fee, which is a considerable economic advantage for the club.
The Attempt for a January Transfer
Despite the confirmation that Alexander-Arnold will arrive in June, Florentino Pérez still considers the possibility of an imminent transfer. Real Madrid could try to convince Liverpool to sell the player in this winter market.
The idea would be to raise the offer to 30 million euros, hoping the "reds" reconsider their stance. Liverpool's refusal remains firm, so the transfer seems to be delayed until the end of the season.
As the season progresses, the need for a quality right-back becomes more urgent. With Carvajal still recovering from his injuries, Real Madrid will have to deal with the lack of depth in that position. The arrival of Alexander-Arnold in June would be a relief, but the club must continue to seek immediate solutions.