Real Madrid Eyeing a New Center-Back: Lukeba and Hato Lead the Race

Real Madrid is preparing to bolster its defense, with growing concerns in the club’s offices about the need for reinforcements at center-back. While Aurélien Tchouaméni has stepped in when necessary, covering in defensive roles, the club feels that relying on him alone is not sufficient.

Both Antonio Rüdiger and Éder Militão are key players for Los Blancos, but the need for more competition in the backline is becoming increasingly apparent.

The club is specifically looking for a left-sided center-back (LCB) to complement the squad. According to sources, Real Madrid has identified two main targets: Castello Lukeba of RB Leipzig and Jorrel Hato of Ajax. Both players are seen as ideal options to bring fresh talent and balance to the defense. Lukeba, 20, has impressed at Leipzig with his composure and solid defensive skills, while the 17-year-old Hato has gained attention with his mature performances in the Eredivisie.

While the club is also monitoring other options, including Manchester City’s Aymeric Laporte, his name is not as frequently mentioned in discussions, suggesting that Lukeba and Hato remain the priority targets.

Real Madrid is aware that, despite Rüdiger’s experience and Militão’s brilliance, depth in the defensive unit is crucial, especially with the high number of games they face across multiple competitions. Adding a young, promising left-footed center-back could ensure long-term stability at the back and provide manager Carlo Ancelotti with more tactical flexibility.

As the January transfer window approaches, it will be interesting to see how Real Madrid moves forward in their pursuit of defensive reinforcements. For now, Lukeba and Hato are leading the list, and fans could see one of these rising stars in the famous white shirt soon.