Real Madrid is undergoing a rebuilding process with Xabi Alonso as its architect. New pieces are already falling into place, but the players who were already on the squad are also taking on new roles and getting used to the higher standards set by the Spaniard, as well as a style of play that is completely different from what they were used to under Ancelotti. It is a process that is being carried out at breakneck speed, but it is also allowing the Tolosa-born coach to assess the squad and see what is surplus to requirements and what is missing.
Dean Huijsen, a great signing
Real Madrid was well aware that between injuries and poor performances, the first step in the transfer market, with an eye on the Club World Cup, had to be to strengthen the defense, and that is what happened. The signing of Dean Huijsen was the first and was not cheap for a center back. The Whites invested $58 million to bring the young player from Bournemouth, convinced of what he could bring to the team.
It has undoubtedly been the right choice, as the player’s performance in the Club World Cup has been outstanding, providing what Xabi Alonso wants from him, which is seriousness and defensive solidity, something he has demonstrated beyond a few isolated mistakes. He is good at bringing the ball out of defense, and his ability to read the game and play impossible passes between the lines is surprising, as is his offensive ability, working very well in the air and in set pieces, something he has not yet been able to demonstrate.
His great performance is valued by the coach, who nevertheless believes he still has room for improvement. “He is another of the pillars and he has demonstrated the personality with which he gets things done. With the national team and with us. In matches and on a daily basis. He is a great signing. We have to support him, push him, because he has room for improvement. He mustn’t relax. But I’m happy to have Dean with us.”
The three-man defense
In recent games, Dean Huijsen has been part of a three-man defense alongside Rüdiger and Tchouaméni, who is proving key as a third center back in defense and as a midfielder when the team is on the ball. It’s working for now, but we’ll have to see what other variations work with him in the third center back role. For now, Xabi Alonso seems to have punished Asencio for his mistakes and already has Eder Militao available, although he has not given him any playing time yet. Alaba is still injured, and both he and Rüdiger are blaming age and injuries in their final year of contract, with their future up in the air. Therefore, it is not surprising that Real Madrid is not closing the door on the arrival of a center back.
Cuti Romero still on the agenda
Despite Huijsen’s great performance, another name has emerged from the Premier League to strengthen the defense: Cristian Romero. The 26-year-old Argentine, a key player for Tottenham and the Argentine national team, is a highly sought-after defender. According to Caught Offside, Tottenham is demanding around €70 million to close the sale of Cuti Romero, which is a price that Real Madrid is not willing to pay. However, the same source claims that “Real Madrid wants to sign the Argentine international during this summer transfer window.” Atlético Madrid is also said to be interested in the Argentine at the request of Simeone. “It is said that Atlético’s board plans to start talks with Daniel Levy,” reports Caught Offside.
The 26-year-old Argentine, a key player for Tottenham and the Argentine national team, is a highly sought-after defender. Transfer expert journalist Ekrem Konur has said the following on social media: “Interest in Cristian Romero is growing from Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid.” Cuti Romero has a contract with Spurs until the summer of 2027. That fact makes negotiations complicated for a player valued at €55 million.