5 players Real Madrid could sign to replace injured Alaba

Real Madrid is facing a defensive crisis following another anterior cruciate ligament injury to David Alaba, leaving them with just two natural central defenders until the end of the season.

Alaba is the third player that Real Madrid have lost to an ACL injury this season, with goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and centre-back Eder Militao already ruled out for the season with similar injuries.

Los Blancos had planned to sign a centre-back at a later date, but the injury to Alaba might force them to rethink signing a replacement as early as January. As the club re-evaluates its transfer plans, five central defenders have emerged as potential solutions to address this injury setback according to news outlets DarioAS and Marca.

At just 20 years old, Giorgio Scalvini has made a name for himself as a regular starter for both Atalanta and the Italian national team. With a tall and imposing frame, Scalvini is regarded as one of the most promising central defenders in Europe.

Real Madrid is said to be monitoring him closely, though his asking price is reported to be around €50 million.

Goncalo Inacio was reportedly Real Madrid's preferred option before Alaba's injury. The 22-year-old, who is impressing at Sporting CP, possesses the added advantage of being left-footed. Real Madrid is keen on signing a permanent left-footed defender, and Inacio's release clause is set at €60 million.

Negotiations could potentially bring down the fee to €45 million now and €15 million in the summer.

At just 20 years of age, Antonio Silva comes with a €100 million release clause. A right-footed defender, Silva is already a mainstay in the Benfica team despite his youth and is on the radar of several teams across Europe as one of the best young defenders in the world at the moment..

However, his release clause and right-footed status might present negotiation challenges for Real Madrid.

Willian Pacho, a 21-year-old Ecuador international, has been making a strong impression at Eintracht Frankfurt.

Another left-footed defender, Pacho's price tag is likely to exceed €40 million after a €9 million transfer this summer. He has been a consistent presence for Eintracht, playing every minute in the Bundesliga this season.

The 18-year-old Leny Yoro has burst onto the scene in Ligue 1, drawing comparisons to a young Raphael Varane. Yoro possesses a well-rounded skill set, combining physicality, speed, and technical ability.

He is considered one of the most promising defenders in Ligue 1 at the moment, which is a huge testament to his current level, considering the amount of talent that the league currently possesses in that position.