5 players Real Madrid need to sign this summer

La Liga champions and Champions League winners for the record 12^th time. Real Madrid boss Zidane has certainly shown that he is one of the best (if not the best) managers in world football at the moment.

The French manager not only managed his squad brilliantly tactics wise, he also proved that he was an excellent man-manager, rotating his squad and keeping his key players fresh for crucial matches.

Real Madrid’s quality and depth were much appreciated, however, stars like Alvaro Morata, James Rodriguez and Mateo Kovacic did not like playing second fiddle and they might well be on their way out this transfer window.

Keeping that in mind, let us take a look at 5 signings Real Madrid need to make to maintain their dominance.

#5 Theo Hernandez

A signing which is almost certain to happen, Theo Hernandez will prove to be an excellent addition to the Real Madrid. Still only 19, AS even officially reported that the medical was done around a month back.

On loan to Deportivo Alaves from Atletico Madrid last season, the young left-back showed his class by putting in consistent performances game after game. Capable of contributing equally in defence and attack, Hernandez has been earmarked to achieve great things with both his club and national sides.

While Real Madrid have one of the best left-backs in the world in Marcelo, they lack any real back-up to him because of the imminent departure of Fabio Coentrao. Nominated for La Liga team of the season, Theo Hernandez will certainly prove to be an excellent addition to the Los Blancos back-line.

#4 David De Gea

The transfer saga which has been going on for over two years might finally come to an end this summer. David de Gea has been linked with a move to the Bernabeu ever since the season ended. One of the best (if not the best) goalkeepers in the world, the Spaniard could become the world’s most expensive goalkeeper should he complete a move to Real Madrid.

While Keylor Navas has been solid for the All Whites, there have been plenty of instances this season where his shakiness has cost the Madrid backline and led to the conceding of cheap goals.

De Gea, on the other hand, has already had an extremely successful spell at La Liga for Real’s arch rivals Atletico before he matured into one of the game's premier shot-stoppers at Manchester United. A truly world class star, Real Madrid will take a huge step towards continuing their dominance if they manage to sign the United goalkeeper.

#3 Dani Ceballos

When you have the likes of Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Casemiro in your midfield, you might think that the All Whites do not need any reinforcing in this position. However, a closer look at things will reveal that one of Zidane’s pressing needs is to sign a young and talented all round midfielder.

With James Rodriguez and Mateo Kovacic linked with transfers away and Luka Modric on the wrong side of 30, the signing of 20-year-old Dani Ceballos for a paltry sum of just 15 million euros will prove to be an excellent investment.

One of the best young midfielders in the League at the moment, Ceballos’ impressive performances for Betis have made him a regular Spanish U-21 international and his passing, vision and positioning skills make him an ideal long-term replacement for Modric.

Zidane has shown that he is not scared to trust youngsters and Ceballos could go on to become a Real Madrid great in the future. In any case, a 15 million euro gamble on a talent like Ceballos is definitely worth taking, especially when the player himself is keen on a move to the Bernabeu.

If latest reports are to be believed, Real Madrid are all set to announce the signing of the Real Betis midfielder.

#2 Kylian Mbappe

The name on everybody’s lips at the moment, Monaco superstar Kylian Mbappe is destined to achieve great things in this sport. In January 2016, Mbappe was yet to pen his first professional contract having played only once for the senior side.

Now, the French forward is a subject of £100 million bids from various top clubs across Europe including Real Madrid, Arsenal, Manchester United and PSG. Blessed with electric pace, stunning dribbling ability and an uncanny knack to find the goal, 18-year-old Mbappe has already shown his ability at the top level by his brilliant performances for Monaco in the Champions League.

With Bale regularly falling prey to injuries and some ridiculous rumours about Ronaldo leaving Madrid because of his tax fraud case, Mbappe can definitely be groomed to become a future world beater under the tutelage if his countryman Zinedine Zidane.

Although still only 18, Mbappe is the real deal and Madrid should go all out and complete the signing of another ‘galactico’ this transfer window.

#1 Jerome Boateng

Amidst all the fanfare and celebration of Real Madrid’s incredible double, there was one negative. It was confirmed that their long-serving defender Pepe will be departing the Bernabeu. While Pepe might not have been the most glamorous player for the All Whites, there was no doubt that he was one of the most effective and loved players at Real Madrid.

Pepe’s departure means that Madrid now have only 3 recognised senior centre-backs in Nacho, Ramos and Varane. Although youngster Jesus Vallejo has been promoted to the first team squad, Zidane needs someone with the experience of playing at the very top level.

Enter Jerome Boateng. The Bayern Munich defender is one of the best centre-backs in world football at the moment and there have been various reports suggesting that Boateng himself is pushing hard for a move to the Spanish champions.

While Boateng will not come cheap, money has never deterred Madrid from signing the very best players and Zidane should be ready to spend the necessary amount if Boateng is willing to change clubs.

A solid centre-back partnership is at the heart of any champion team and we might just see Boateng and Ramos pair up for the All Whites next season.