Real Madrid News
Real Madrid tracking developments around two defensive targets
According to a report from Rodra via ESPN, Real Madrid are closely monitoring two centre-backs who sit at very different stages of their careers but fit a similar sporting profile, namely Jeremy Jacquet and Nico Schlotterbeck.
The renewed focus on central defenders is no coincidence, as Real Madrid have faced growing issues at the back this season, with injuries disrupting continuity and uncertainty looming over several senior players.
As such, both David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger are approaching the final stages of their contracts, forcing the club to seriously consider long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes.
Within Valdebebas, the aim is to secure a player who can either grow into a pillar of the defence or arrive ready-made to lead it. This is where the work of Juni Calafat becomes crucial.
The scouting department has delivered very positive reports on both Jacquet and Schlotterbeck, placing them firmly on Madrid’s radar.
Two options for the future
The journalist mentions that Jacquet is seen as a defender for the future.
The 20-year-old Frenchman first caught Madrid’s attention during the 2024 UEFA European Under-19 Championship, where his performances stood out for their maturity and physical authority.
Since then, the club has continued to track his progress closely. Now established in the first team at Stade Rennais, he has shown he can handle the demands of Ligue 1 at a young age.
Athletic, quick across the ground, and comfortable defending large spaces, Jacquet fits the classic Real Madrid centre-back mould.
However, with a contract running until 2029, any move would be complex and potentially expensive.
Meanwhile, Schlotterbeck represents a different kind of opportunity, as the Borussia Dortmund defender has already proven at the highest level.
With his contract expiring in 2027 and no clear signs of renewal, Dortmund may be open to negotiations next summer, which could make his situation more accessible.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. admits finishing problem after another frustrating night vs Elche: ‘Can’t miss that much’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult start in front of goal continued against Elche, and the Real Madrid forward did not need anyone to tell him he had missed another chance to make the difference.
The Brazilian finished the night without a goal despite having chances to get on the scoresheet, while his teammates could only watch from the bench as opportunities went begging.
Jose Mourinho had already identified the problem before kick-off, bluntly pointing to the issue facing his forward, stating, “He’s missing the goal.”
Vini offered an equally frank assessment afterwards.
Rather than hide from another frustrating evening, he accepted responsibility on social media: “The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Two chances, no finish for Vinicius
Vinicius had two particularly clear openings against Elche, but neither produced the finish Real Madrid needed from their star forward.
The first arrived when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper.
Instead of finding the net, Vinicius caught the ball with the tip of his foot and sent his effort wide. Arda Guler was available during the move and called for the ball, but Vini backed himself to finish the chance.
He had another opportunity after the interval, this time following an excellent pass from Guler during a quick Real Madrid transition. Again, though, Vinicius could not find the target.
His evening ended in the 68th minute, with Mourinho deciding the Brazilian was tired and turning his attention towards Sunday’s Atletico Madrid derby.
Mourinho has a bigger decision to make
The numbers show why Vinicius’ finishing has become a talking point. He managed five shots against Elche, but only one was on target and none found the net.
After seven appearances this season, the Brazilian has scored just once, which is a striking return for a player Real Madrid rely upon to provide a major share of their attacking threat.
Ultimately, though, Real Madrid found another route to victory, with Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and Carlos Espi providing the goals in the 3-2 comeback.
