Real Madrid
Who is Abdukodir Khusanov, a transfer target for Real Madrid and Manchester City?
Madrid and City are closely monitoring Uzbek center-back Khusanov, who has been starring in France’s Ligue 1 with Lens.
Real Madrid’s ongoing search for a young, promising, and affordable center-back continues. The latest player under their radar is Abdukodir Khusanov, a standout defender for French club Lens.
At just 20 years old, Khusanov, who has 18 caps for Uzbekistan, has become one of the sensations of Ligue 1. Lens acquired him for a mere $110,000 from Belarusian club FC Energetik-BGU Minsk in the summer of 2023, and his value has now skyrocketed to $13 million, according to Transfermarkt. His rapid growth in France has been supremely impressive.
What kind of player is Abdukodir Khusanov?
Khusanov has caught the attention of Real Madrid scouts, but they are not alone. His attributes make him a prototypical Premier League center-back, attracting interest from several top English clubs, with Manchester City leading the charge. Initial contact has been made between his representatives and the Citizens.
The right-footed youngster is known more for his off-the-ball defensive skills than for his ability with the ball at his feet. As highlighted in a scouting report by Total Football Analysis, the Uzbek isn’t especially quick but makes up for it with his positional sense, reading of the game and timing of his challenges.
Real Madrid looking for ‘new’ Raphaël Varane
From Real Madrid’s perspective, the French market remains particularly appealing. Since the successful acquisition of Raphael Varane, recommended by Zinedine Zidane and also signed from Lens, the club has kept a close watch on Ligue 1.
The league provides young center-backs with valuable playing time at a high level without inflating prices. This strategy was nearly replicated with Leny Yoro last summer, but Manchester United swooped in with a lucrative offer, signing the 18-year-old for around $65 million and offering him a staggering $9 million annual net salary.
Khusanov’s price will again depend on how much the British pound comes into play, especially with Manchester City’s deep pockets.
Madrid uncertainty over Jonathan Tah
Real Madrid’s strategy of focusing on young players continues, particularly in the center-back position, where their future options remain somewhat unclear.
One name of interest is Jonathan Tah (29), whose contract with Bayer Leverkusen expires in June. However, he is highly sought after, with Barcelona already making a move for him. This is another type of player Real Madrid is considering, especially if David Alaba’s return does not go as hoped.
The club is currently satisfied with Tchouameni and Asencio supporting Rüdiger for the rest of the season, and 17-year-old Diego Aguado made his debut in the Copa del Rey game against Deportiva Minera. However, strengthening at center-back is expected to be one of Madrid’s main objectives in the summer.
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