"Florentino Pérez passed on the opportunity to re-sign Sergio Ramos, opting instead for a surprising new defensive acquisition: a player set to join Real Madrid on a free transfer. After Dani Carvajal's recent injury, Madrid is exploring multiple defensive options, particularly at right-back and center-back. While Carvajal's recovery details are emerging, the club is weighing potential signings both for the upcoming summer transfer window and possibly earlier in the winter, a period during which Real Madrid has traditionally remained inactive.
Club management, led by Pérez, has its sights set on the summer of 2025 to bring in a seasoned center-back on a free transfer. Jonathan Tah has recently surfaced as a strong candidate to reinforce the defense, following a failed attempt to sign Lenny Yoro.
With injuries plaguing players like Juan Martínez and David Alaba, Real Madrid has been relying on makeshift solutions. Although Alaba is nearing a return, Aurélien Tchouaméni has been filling in at center-back alongside Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger.
Bringing in Tah would echo previous free transfer moves for defenders like Rüdiger and Alaba—experienced players under 30 who strengthen the backline. Reports suggest that Tah is unlikely to renew his contract with Bayer Leverkusen, increasing the chances of him joining Madrid.
Currently, there’s limited competition for Tah’s signature, though Barcelona is still monitoring the situation for the summer of 2025. Real Madrid could have the upper hand, especially if Tah favors a move to the Bernabéu.
According to reports, Pérez's decision to prioritize Tah over Ramos, who at 38 is nearing the end of his career, was based on Tah’s younger age and lower wage demands. This has left Ramos disappointed, as he had hoped for a return to the club, but he now continues his search for a team willing to invest in his experience.