Real Madrid set sights on 21-year-old Premier League defender as answer to right-back problem | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s right-back position has been one of the most problematic areas of the squad this season, and the club are determined to address it properly this summer.

Dani Carvajal, who prepares for his final appearance as a Real Madrid player against Athletic Bilbao at the Bernabeu this weekend, is leaving a significant void behind him.

Trent Alexander-Arnold was brought in to fill that gap, but the Englishman has struggled with fitness and consistency throughout the campaign, raising questions about whether he can be relied upon as the sole option in that position.

Real Madrid target Kayode

Is Kayode the right option for Real Madrid? (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

According to OK Diario, Real Madrid have identified Brentford right-back Kayode as a priority target to address their defensive concerns.

The 21-year-old has emerged as a popular choice within the club’s planning for the new season under Jose Mourinho.

The fit makes sense on multiple levels. Mourinho has always prioritised physically intense, fast and combative defenders who can compete in direct, high-tempo football.

Kayode checks every box, combining defensive aggression, physical strength and the ability to sustain counter-attacks with the kind of personality Mourinho demands from his players.

Competition for Trent

Real Madrid need a viable backup for Trent Alexander-Arnold. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

While Alexander-Arnold remains the expected starter, both Real Madrid and Mourinho are aligned on the need for a high-quality competitor and cover option at right-back rather than simply a backup.

They need someone capable of pushing Trent and stepping in seamlessly when required.

Kayode’s profile, youth and Premier League experience make him an attractive proposition as Real Madrid look to rebuild their defensive unit from the ground up this summer.

Real Madrid, though, are also looking at other options in the market, including Diogo Dalot of Manchester United, Denzel Dumfries of Inter Milan and Pedro Porro.