Real Madrid's January Transfer Plans

Real Madrid is gearing up for a bustling transfer window, with significant plans to bolster their squad. The LaLiga giants are specifically on the lookout for both a left-back and a right-back to reinforce their defense. According to insiders at TEAMtalk, AC Milan defender Theo Hernandez has emerged as a prominent candidate on Real Madrid's wish list.

Targets for the Defense

Carlo Ancelotti, the club's manager, has identified Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold as the top priority, targeting a potential free transfer for the 26-year-old right-back in the summer of 2024. If Alexander-Arnold does not sign a contract extension with Liverpool, Real Madrid is poised to initiate pre-contract discussions as early as January.

Left-Back Situation

In addition to their pursuit of Alexander-Arnold, Ancelotti seeks to add competition on the left flank, particularly with Ferland Mendy currently dealing with injury woes. Initially, Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies was their primary target, but competition from Manchester United poses a challenge for Madrid.

Hernandez's Current Situation

Recent reports indicate that Real Madrid has reached out to Hernandez's representatives to explore his interest in a move back to the Spanish capital. The 27-year-old, who previously donned the Real Madrid jersey from 2017 to 2019, is reportedly experiencing dissatisfaction with his current situation at AC Milan. Hernandez's contract with the Italian club runs until 2026, but negotiations regarding an extension have stagnated, which has piqued Madrid's interest further.

Salary Discontent

Sources suggest that AC Milan has offered Hernandez an approximate salary of €5 million per season, a figure the left-back finds unsatisfactory. This predicament positions Real Madrid for a potential reunion. The prospect of returning to Madrid is said to "fascinate" Hernandez, making a January move seem plausible.

Impending Decisions

With the January transfer window approaching, the tension surrounding Hernandez's future is palpable. If AC Milan cannot finalize their negotiations or if Hernandez does not extend beyond 2026, January or next summer represents their last chance to secure a profitable transfer.

Center-Back Speculations

In related transfer rumors, there's speculation surrounding Madrid’s center-backs. Reports claim that the club might look to offload David Alaba and Eder Militao at the season’s end, prompting a search for replacements. The name of Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has surfaced as a "dream reinforcement," despite indications that he might extend his contract with the Reds.

Competition from Barcelona

Meanwhile, the transfer saga for Trent Alexander-Arnold intensifies as Barcelona joins the fray, reportedly preparing a firm proposal to lure the English defender to Camp Nou. Liverpool remains hopeful of tying Alexander-Arnold to an extension, but with increased interest from both Madrid and Barcelona, the coming weeks promise to be pivotal.

Conclusion

As the January window approaches, one cannot help but wonder: Will Real Madrid succeed in their bold pursuits, or will they face fierce competition for top-tier talent? Stay tuned as we cover this evolving story!