Ancelotti wants to strengthen Real Madrid’s defense with another signing
With just a few days remaining before the transfer market comes to a close, clubs across Europe are scrambling to expedite deals for their new signings.
Real Madrid, to that end, have had things pretty quiet ever since announcing the deal to sign Kylian Mbappe. The club’s official stance was to not sign any more new players to the squad.
However, as we approach the end of the transfer window, Real Madrid are increasingly growing anxious about the lack of depth in the defensive unit.
Real Madrid keeping track of Al Nassr defender
A recent report from Defensa Central has claimed Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti wants to sign a centre-back in these last few days of the market, with Aymeric Laporte once again emerging as an option.
The report suggests the Frenchman-turned-Spaniard has been looking to leave Al Nassr for a while now, with Real Madrid emerging as one of the potential destinations.
Formerly of Man City, Laporte joined Al Nassr in 2023, hoping to start a new chapter in his career.
However, the defender hasn’t been enjoying his time in the Middle East and wants to return to Europe.
Laporte’s future could be tied to Milan Skriniar of PSG. The former Inter Milan defender is close to joining Al Nassr – a deal that may allow Laporte to leave the Saudi Arabian outfit.
Real Madrid are keeping a close track of this evolving situation and it will be interesting to see whether or not Los Blancos make a late attempt to sign the former Man City defense.
Despite the recent 3-0 win over Real Valladolid, Real Madrid must prepare for a tough period ahead as the club look to deal with the absence of Jude Bellingham.
The Englishman is ruled out for at least a month due to a muscle problem. His absence could be consequential for Real Madrid, considering the creativity and attacking firepower the player used to provide in the final third.
Bellingham’s injury could see Carlo Ancelotti improvise and that is where Arda Guler comes into the fray.
More minutes for Arda Guler?
As reported by Diario AS, Carlo Ancelotti has hinted at an expanded role for Arda Guler this season, a development that comes as a relief to fans eager to see more of the Turkish prodigy.
With Jude Bellingham sidelined for a month due to injury, Ancelotti has a chance to shake up his lineup, providing Güler the opportunity to step into the spotlight.
Güler, 19, made his pre-season mark with appearances against AC Milan and in the Clasico against Barcelona.
Ancelotti sees a lot of versatility in the young midfielder.
“Arda’s best position is between the lines, he can be a number 10, he can be a right midfielder. In the future, he could be one of the three midfielders,” Ancelotti commented during Real Madrid’s US tour.
This tactical flexibility could be crucial for Güler as he looks to carve out more minutes on the pitch, especially given the intense competition in Madrid’s squad.
With creative talents like Bellingham, Rodrygo, VinÃcius, Endrick, and Brahim DÃaz all vying for starting spots, Ancelotti’s ability to rotate and find the right balance will be key.
The Italian manager’s approach seems to be paying off, with Güler already showing promise as a goal threat.
Despite limited playing time last season, he converted all six of his shots on goal into goals. Ancelotti has been clear about where he envisions Güler thriving: “He should not play on the left, with that left foot of his. If he has the opportunity to shoot, he should do it.”
With Bellingham’s injury, Güler may now have the chance to exceed his 440 minutes from last season. Ancelotti’s confidence in the young starlet could signal a breakthrough season for Güler, giving Madrid another creative force in their ranks.