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Real Madrid had a rather quiet transfer window this summer, with David Alaba and Edouardo Camavinga being the only additions to their squad. The Spanish giants tried to make Kylian Mbappe their marquee signing, but PSG didn't let their prized asset leave.
Known for their ability to attract top superstars, Los Blancos are in the running to land a few top-class superstars in the next few months. According to reports, the La Liga leaders are prepared to go all out when the transfer window reopens in 2022.
That could result in a couple of high-profile transfers to the Spanish capital. On that note, here's a look at five elite players Real Madrid could sign in 2022:
#5 Jules Kounde
Real Madrid suffered a huge setback when their first-choice centre-back pairing of Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane left the Santiago Bernabeu this summer.
Eder Militao has gradually stepped up, with David Alaba and Nacho providing short term solutions. But it makes more sense for Los Blancos to sign a reliable and bonafide centre-back soon.
One such option is Sevilla's Jules Kounde. The Frenchman was one of the most impressive centre-backs in the La Liga last season, making 34 appearances for Sevilla and bagging two goals and an assist.
He has also represented the Andalusians in six games in the Champions League and La Liga this season, putting up eye-catching displays. Kounde is valued at €60 million by Transfermarkt, which is a decent value for a player of his calibre.
#4 Paul Pogba
Paul Pogba and Real Madrid have been flirting over a potential transfer for quite some time. As per reports, the Frenchman could move to the Santiago Bernabeu next year.
Pogba hasn't extended his contract with Manchester United thus far. That means the midfielder could leave for free next summer, and can start holding talks with potential suitors from January.
According to reports, the midfielder has chosen to join Real Madrid for free once his contract expires in June. Pogba is off to an impressive start to the season, though, bagging seven assists for Manchester United in six Premier League games.
#3 Matthijs de Ligt
Recent reports suggest that Real Madrid are seriously considering luring Matthijs De Ligt from Juventus to strengthen their defence. Los Blancos have had an interest in the Dutchman since his days at Ajax. It seems now that they might secure his services next year.
Having played catch-up to Giorgio Chiellini and Leonardo Bonucci for most of his Juventus career, the defender could be open to leaving in search of greener pastures elsewhere.
There's no doubt De Ligt would greatly improve Real Madrid's backline. The Dutchman possesses the charisma, confidence, rigidity and leadership skills to become a mainstay at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, Los Blancos will need to splash the cash to sign the player, who has a €75 million market value.
#2 Erling Haaland
Thanks to his explosive rise, Erling Haaland has risen to become one of the most sought-after players in Europe. The Borussia Dortmund forward was heavily linked with several big clubs during the summer transfer window, including Real Madrid.
There's no doubt Haaland has the quality to become the next mega superstar at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Norwegian finished as the top scorer in the Champions League last season with an impressive ten goals and two assists in eight appearances.
So far this season, he has played eight games across competitions for Borussia Dortmund, bagging 11 goals and four assists. The striker is currently valued at €150 million, but Real Madrid could sign him for just €75 million when his release clause drops next summer.
#1 Kylian Mbappe
Kylian Mbappe's transfer to Real Madrid seems to be a matter of when and not if. It is an open secret that both parties admire each other, and they were close to joining forces this summer.
As confirmed by PSG's sporting director Leonardo, Mbappe informed the Parisians of his intention to leave, with Los Blancos tabling a big-money offer for his signature.
Although the move didn't materialise, it is almost certain Real Madrid could make another attempt to sign the winger in 2022. According to reports, the Spanish giants might submit another bid to sign the Frenchman in January.
Should the Ligue 1 giants demonstrate reluctance once again, Los Blancos could simply wait till the end of the season for Kylian Mbappe's contract to expire and then sign him for free.
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