Real Madrid and Barcelona battling for Frankfurt left-back Nathaniel Brown | OneFootball

Real Madrid and Barcelona are in the race to sign Eintracht Frankfurt left-back Nathaniel Brown in the summer of 2026 (h/t Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg).

Madrid have scouted the 22-year-old German prospect in the recent games against Koln and Atalanta.

Their arch-rivals Barca have been keeping tabs on his excellent performances this season. The Catalan giants have prioritised strengthening the left-back position next summer.

Manchester United have also identified Brown as a potential target. The German giants are open to selling him in the summer due to the increasing demand.

Having sold the likes of Omar Marmoush and Hugo Ekitike for enormous fees this year, the Eagles are looking to follow suit with their next prized asset, Brown.

With a contract running until 2030, Frankfurt are in pole position to demand a hefty fee for Brown. They rate him at €60-70 million.

After an excellent breakout campaign last season, where he helped Frankfurt finish in the Champions League places, Brown has continued his upward trajectory this term.

He has racked up a goal and three assists in 18 games this season, with his performances in the UCL gaining wider attention.

Barca manager Hansi Flick wants a top-class left-back on his wishlist for the summer transfer window.

The German gaffer is looking to add a player who can be a perfect back-up for Alejandro Balde or even compete with him for the starting spot.

While Gerard Martin looks to be an able understudy for Balde, he is more suited to a centre-back role, something Barca have been witnessing this season.

Brown has an exceptional pace and stands out for his defensive skills and physicality, meaning he is very good at nullifying threats during 1v1 situations and defensive transitions.

Despite splurging €50 million for Alvaro Carreras in the summer, Madrid are still looking to sign the German youngster.

Brown has also started to become a regular for the German national team with his incredible rise. He is also a top contender for the left-back spot in the 2026 World Cup.