Marca front page reveals Real Madrid interest in key Barcelona player, had been on summer agenda

Marca’s Saturday front page pushes Real Madrid’s need to sign a central defender.

The club haven’t replaced Pepe, since the Portuguese veteran left, and faith in Jesus Vallejo is running out. At 21 years of age, there’s concerns about whether Vallejo can make the step up, either in his game and as a personality, and therefore it’s thought a loan or sale with buyback option would be the best idea.

That leaves Real Madrid with Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane, one of the best pairings in world football but not immune to injuries and the need for rest. There’s also Nacho, but given what Marca say about Vallejo, it’s no surprise Madrid would be keen to add.

It is perhaps a surprise that a Barcelona player has come under serious consideration. The Spanish newspaper explains Samuel Umitit was on the summer agenda, although it’s not explained if any moves were made to try and sign the Frenchman.

At the time, Umtiti’s contract at Barcelona had a release clause of €60m and he was repeatedly linked with Manchester United. A swoop from Real Madrid would have certainly been controversial.

Instead, the World Cup winner renewed with Barcelona, and Madrid have to look at other options. Real Madrid pair Lucas Hernandez and Jose Gimenez have also been of interest.