Real Madrid chief scout leaning towards Premier League defender over Bayern mainstay – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid appear set on strengthening the centre-back position next summer, just as they did this year.

The arrival of Dean Huijsen was seen as an important investment, but it seems it will not be enough. With the possible departures of Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, whose contracts are due to expire, the club must look for alternatives in the market.

The main favourite remains Ibrahima Konate, who is also out of contract with Liverpool and could arrive on a free transfer. However, the names of Dayot Upamecano and Marc Guehi have also been strongly linked.

All three are in the same contractual situation and, if they do not renew, are marked targets.

Calafat prefers Guehi over Upamecano

Although Upamecano initially appeared to be the preferred option, in recent days Guehi has moved ahead.

According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid chief scout, Juni Calafat, has been closely monitoring both players, following their performances and compiling reports. He now considers that the Englishman would be a better reinforcement than the Bayern Munich star.

It should be remembered that last summer Guehi was close to signing for Liverpool replacement. However, Crystal Palace refused to let him go and the transfer did not take place. Everything points to him leaving next summer as a free agent.

The report states that Guehi’s thinking has also shifted. After his move to Liverpool fell through, he would now be open to joining Real Madrid. He is even said to have asked his representative to explore the possibility of such a move.

Upamecano focused on Bayern

Upamecano is in talks with Bayern over new contract. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, there have been reports suggesting that Upamecano also desires to sign for Real Madrid and had offered himself to the club.

But, this possibility seems unlikely with Calafat leaning towards Guehi, coupled with the fact that, Upamecano himself hinted at a potential renewal with Bayern Munich.

“I feel comfortable here, I’m happy. My agent is speaking to Bayern officials. The talks are ongoing. There’s nothing more to say. We’ll see what happens,” he said.

These comments are not the only reason Real Madrid’s interest has cooled. Calafat’s opinion has also played a key role. He considers that Upamecano is a weaker defender than Guehi, showing major lapses in some important matches.

At present, Guehi is gaining ground as the Plan B to reinforce the Real Madrid defence, as an alternative to Konate, who remains the primary target.