Real Madrid are preparing for their upcoming UEFA Super Cup tie against Atalanta on Wednesday, August 14, at the National Stadium Warsaw. New signing Kylian Mbappe could make his debut for the reigning La Liga and European champions against the Serie A side.
Meanwhile, Los Blancos have set their sights on a Manchester United full-back. Elsewhere, Brahim Diaz wants to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu next season.
On that note, let's look at the major Real Madrid transfer stories from August 11, 2024.
Real Madrid eyeing Diogo Dalot
Real Madrid are considering a move for Diogo Dalot in 2025, according to GIVEMESPORT. The Portuguese right-back has gone from strength to strength at Manchester United and was quite influential under Erik ten Hag last season.
Dalot operated at right-back and even covered at left-back when required. The 25-year-old registered three goals and five assists from 50 games across competitions. His efforts have convinced the La Liga giants, who are planning to reinforce the right-back position next summer.
Los Blancos have the legendary Dani Carvajal in their ranks, but the Spaniard is already on the wrong side of 30. While he has shown no signs of slowing down, Real Madrid are preparing for the inevitable.
They are scouting the market for replacements and have identified Trent-Alexander Arnold as their priority target. However, Dalot is also on their radar and Los Blancos could move for the Portuguese if they fail to script a Bosman move for the Englishman.
Dalot is under contract with the Premier League giants until 2028, so he is likely to cost a sizeable fee.
Brahim Diaz wants to stay at the Santiago Bernabeu
Brahim Diaz has no desire to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, according to AS. The Moroccan midfielder has been linked with an exit this year, amid the intense competition for a place under Carlo Ancelotti.
Despite Toni Kroos' departure, the Italian manager is likely to be spoilt for choice in the upcoming campaign. The arrival of Kylian Mbappe and Endrick could also force a change in formation, which could further cut into Diaz's game time.
The situation has added to speculation regarding the 25-year-old's future. However, the player remains determined to come good with Real Madrid and is willing to fight for his place under Ancelotti.
The Moroccan international enjoyed an impressive 2023-24 campaign, scoring 12 goals and setting up nine more from 44 games across competitions. With the La Liga giants set to play in seven tournaments, Diaz is confident he will get his chances.
Liverpool legend opens up on Trent Alexander-Arnold's future
Liverpool legend Michael Owen believes Trent Alexander-Arnold will have a decision on his hands this summer amid interest from Real Madrid. The English right-back has entered the final year of his contract with the Merseyside club and hasn't agreed to a new deal.
Los Blancos are eyeing succession plans for Dani Carvajal and are considering a Bosman move for Alexander-Arnold in 2025. The 25-year-old has been integral to the Reds' recent rise under Jurgen Klopp and could be a hit under Carlo Ancelotti. Owen knows a thing or two about moving from Anfield to Spain, having followed the path to the Santiago Bernabeu in his career.
Speaking recently, as cited by Football 365, the former Ballon d'Or winner added that his countryman will be tempted by the prospect of joining the La Liga champions.
“With Trent Alexander-Arnold and the Real Madrid speculation, I was put in a position during my career in which I had to make a quick decision in a week or so on my future and it was a tricky one. Obviously Real Madrid at the moment are the best team in Europe, they are the biggest team in the world and have that iconic kit and their players…it’s the best stage in Europe," said Owen.
“I had a similar thing at that stage of my career and I decided that it was an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up. I don’t know if it’s an opportunity for Trent or a possibility but he’d have a lot to think about if they came in for him,” he added.
Owen concluded:
“Having said that, he’s so ingrained into Liverpool and the fans love him, he’s grown up with the club and it’s such a strong connection. It’s only Real Madrid that could make him have a think, if not then you’d have to assume he’ll be at Liverpool forever. I hope that is the case but he might have a decision to make.”
Arse Slot has already insisted that the 25-year-old remains a part of his plans at the club.