Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho requests final defender signing – two leading targets identified | OneFootball

Real Madrid have already wrapped up four signings before the summer transfer window has even opened, with the latest being Bernardo Silva. Defensive trio Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate and Marc Cucurella have also arrived, and there could still be one final back-line addition to Jose Mourinho’s squad.

Prior to the summer, it was widely reported that Real Madrid were considering the signing of multiple centre-backs. David Alaba’s exit, which will be finalised when his contract expires on the 30th June, has been filled by Konate, but given their defensive woes from the last couple of seasons, there is a desire to add further strength in depth.

Mourinho is driving this, with Matteo Moretto (via Marca) reporting that he has asked Real Madrid for one final defensive signing: a centre-back. The club are prepared to adhere to his request, which has led the Portuguese to start identifying targets, and he has already identified two preferred options.

Portuguese pair wanted by Mourinho

Image via EFE

According to the report, Mourinho has put forward two names to the Real Madrid sporting department: Ruben Dias and Tomas Araujo. Nico Schlotterbeck of Borussia Dortmund is also appreciated, but the Portuguese head coach has a clear preference to bring in one of his compatriots.

Dias is a player that has been gaining traction within Real Madrid in the last few weeks. The departure of Pep Guardiola from Manchester City has opened the door to a possible move, and with former teammate Silva arriving at the Bernabeu, it could another incentive for to push through a transfer. As for Araujo, he’s less established, although that means he could cost less.

It’ll certainly be interesting to see who Real Madrid sign between now and the end of the summer, but there is certainly a strong determination to build a squad that can challenge Barcelona after two dismal seasons.