3 signings Real Madrid need to get back on track

Juventus FC v AC Milan - TIM Cup
Dybala's athleticism and ability might help to turn fortunes at the Bernabeu

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and they do not necessarily represent the views of Sportskeeda.

Real Madrid started this campaign on a high, having won both La Liga and Champions League titles last term. However, they have struggled defensively and the lack of a solid goalscoring forward has left their season in shambles.

Zinedine Zidane and Florentino Perez will look to capitalise on the impending transfer window by grabbing some talented players to help them get back on track, ahead of the business months of the 2017/18 campaign.

In these times of crisis, the Bernabeu begs for some change. Real still have ample time to pull up their socks, paving the way through the remainder of this season and beyond. The following three players would help offer significant hope to the supporters and their ambitions going forward:

#1: Paulo Dybala (Juventus)

Dealing with Gareth Bale's injuries is proving troublesome for Real at present. He has spent the majority of this season sidelined, whilst also being heavily linked with a Premier League return too. Dybala is a viable option for Los Blancos at present, to replace Bale - having developed tremendously in recent seasons whilst establishing his quality at Juventus.

Bale provides both pace and strength during counter-attacking moves, but Dybala's playstyle relies heavily on player positioning and his own individual skill. He is versatile enough to play in a range of different attacking positions, whilst co-ordinating well with midfielders as they aim to create opportunities galore in the final third.

His blistering pace and dribbling skill, which can also be utilised on the wings, opens up options for the forwards to benefit from - hence why his partnership with compatriot Gonzalo Higúain has been so effective in recent seasons.

So far, his spell in Turin has been fantastic. He has all the makings of a player that Real would benefit from and even though he'd not be eligible to feature in the Champions League this term, having represented the Serie A champions already in group stage competition, they could show a real signal of intent by acquiring his services next month.

#2: Sergio Aguero (Manchester City)

Real Madrid are keen to sign a reliable attacking option, someone who can retain possession whilst having the speed needed to support counter-attacking football.

Aguero has been a prolific figure for Manchester City in recent seasons and this term is no different. He has netted 15 goals in 20 appearances across all competitions, despite reportedly unhappy about not receiving as much playing time as he would like.

Manchester City v Aston Villa - Premier League
Sergio Aguero's attacking intelligence and prolific nature will strengthen Real in attack

Madrid supporters have made their discontent towards Karim Benzema known, with the Frenchman's poor form and their lack of confidence in his ability never a good combination. It's increasingly likely that he will leave the club soon and if this happens, Real need a suitable replacement.

Aguero provides both speed and attacking intelligence, whilst being a creative mind - one who could link up well with the midfield duo of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

Although Pep has publicly stated his affection for the Argentine, it's clear that things are not all going smoothly in Manchester at present - even though City themselves are currently 15-points clear of their title-chasing rivals.

#3: Leonardo Bonucci (AC Milan)

Third and finally, Leonardo Bonucci would help to strengthen Real - in a different sense to the aforementioned duo. Real's backline have become too predictable and the Italian has proved his ability at Juventus prior to his summer move to Milan.

FC Bayern v AC Milan - 2017 International Champions Cup China
Bonucci's strong defensive mindset and experience will bring discipline and surprise opponents

Of course, it's impossible to ignore his loss of form since arriving at Milan. He himself has been honest with his assessment of the season thus far, saying he has struggled both with the mental side of things following a surprise move, as well as his physical condition too.

Despite saying things would get better earlier this month, it's evident that he is best playing among players at the highest level - Milan, as ambitious as they are, are not yet that good and playing in a two-man defensive partnership does not suit Bonucci in the current circumstances.

As a result, if Real's interest in the 30-year-old is serious, Zidane would look to alter the formation while introducing Bonucci in the centre of defence. Conceding goals more frequently than Real should do, has lead to them dropping more points.

The inclusion of another defensive-minded player within the backline will see a midfielder sacrificed, potentially Mateo Kovavcic or Isco - depending on the opposition.

Bonucci has developed a reputation for reliability and quality for consecutive seasons in Italy and although the last few months have been tough, class is permanent. Unlike both Dybala and Aguero, he would be eligible to compete in the Champions League knockout stages - having represented Milan in the Europa League before Christmas.

Quick Links