CORNERFLICK
Real Madrid are planning a long-term reshuffle in central defence, with Antonio Rüdiger expected to leave when his deal runs down.
Rüdiger set to move on
The 33-year-old German is unlikely to receive another one-year extension under Madrid's usual policy for players over 30. That would allow him to leave the Bernabéu on a free transfer.
Competition for the centre-back spots has grown with Ibrahima Konaté, Dean Huijsen and Eder Militão returning gradually to fitness, and Rüdiger is no longer a guaranteed starter for José Mourinho.
The three names under consideration
Madrid's list includes Alessandro Bastoni, Nico Schlotterbeck and Luka Vušković. Bastoni is Mourinho's preferred option. The 27-year-old Inter defender is admired for his physical strength, passing and leadership, but his contract and a likely fee of about €70 million or more are major obstacles.
Florentino Pérez is said to favour Schlotterbeck. The 26-year-old Borussia Dortmund centre-back is under contract until 2031, though reports suggest a release clause of around €50 million to €60 million for major clubs. Recent injuries have reduced the appeal of his case.
Vušković is the younger option. The 19-year-old Croatian joined Brighton from Tottenham last summer for about £46 million, after a loan spell at Hamburg. Madrid plan to watch all three closely in European matches in November and December 2026, with formal contact expected from the summer of 2027 if they decide against extending Rüdiger's contract.