REAL MADRID
Lopetegui wants a replacement if Vallejo leaves on loan
Lopetegui wants a left-footed central defender if Jesus Vallejo leaves and he has a loan offer from Real Sociedad, who are concerned about his fitness.
Jesus Vallejo has an offer from Real Sociedad to play at the club on loan for the season. Julen Lopetegui wants a replacement brought in if the Spanish defender does leave before the close of the transfer market. The Real Madrid manager has made a very specific request in that he wants a left-footed centre-back.
Lopetegui wants a player who can play in a back three if necessary. He also realises that he has three right-footed central defenders at present and would like some variety with Vallejo, Sergio Ramos and Nacho all preferring their right foot.
The depth and variety required by Lopetegui comes despite the three aforementioned players proving they are capable of dealing with whatever situation arises. Nacho played at left-back against Girona after Marcelo was substituted.
Vallejo has a supporter in Lopetegui, who brought the defender to the World Cup as back-up and in order to let him gain experience. The possibility of him leaving the club this summer on loan has been gathering pace, however, with La Real the most recent to enquire. His most recent setback, a hamstring injury, has not helped. His injury history is concerning too, the most recent one is his 12th since he became a professional during his time at Zaragoza, Eintracht and now Madrid.
Real Sociedad, managed by Asier Garitano, are looking for a replacement for Diego Llorente, who recently suffered an injury that will keep him out for three months. La Real are hesitating based on Vallejo's own injury history and the fact that they have already signed Theo Hernandez on loan already.
If Vallejo does leave, Lopetegui has options in the academy including Reguilón and Javi Sánchez but the specific player he needs will have to be brought in. Also finding a player that is willing to be fourth choice and meets the criteria explained by Lopetegui makes it even more difficult with the transfer market closing on Friday.
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