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Sergio Ramos' time at Real Madrid could be followed by these young starsSergio Ramos is an icon. He's more than just a defender having achieved cult status soon after joining the Madrid club and has gone on to lead the club on multiple occasions winning almost everything there is. The Spaniard is, however, not getting any younger and despite still having a few more years of playing time ahead of him, will soon start letting age get the better of him. As a central defender, it's isn't easy playing for as long as a midfielder or a forward will – especially if you're someone in the mould of Ramos with all the tackling, physicality and aggression on the pitch. Here's looking at five young defenders who could soon go on to replace the enigmatic Sergio Ramos:
#5 Jose Maria Gimenez
The Uruguayan is a future superstar. He's mobile, he reads the game excellently and is capable of leading a side from the back. Jose Gimenez has been with Atletico Madrid and the switch across the capital may be a traitorous one but ultimately fruitful given the platform Real Madrid could give him.
Sergio Ramos joined Real Madrid as a teenager and has gone on to cement himself as one of the all-time greats and Gimenez has all the right qualities to do the same. He's good with his tackle ready to slide in irrespective of how he may come out of it and every given chance – when on the ball – is looking for a forward pass that cut open the midfield.
The only drawback that Gimenez would have is his willingness to break with the ball forward and that, at times, has hurt Atletico against sides who have a tighter midfield.
#4 Marquinhos
The Paris Saint-Germain defender has been often frustrated with his club due to the lack of playing time but still remains one of the brightest prospects in defending. Marquinhos is quick, often rushes to win loose balls and has the height to clear long-balls and deal efficiently in set pieces.
The biggest advantage is the way he's able to confidently run with the ball and dance through the best of midfields. The Brazilian is denied playing time due to his compatriots Thiago Silva and David Luiz but the latter is way more erratic and clumsy when compared to the youngster.
A move to Real Madrid is possible and Marquinhos has the attitude to fit into that kind of dressing room making sure that his on-field contribution is what sets him apart. He's one of the best in the world and could do very well with a move to one of the best clubs in the world.
#3 Aymeric Laporte
The Frenchman is only 21 and has already had the honour of being indicted in the Liga Team of the Year. With his height and incredible composure on the ball, Laporte is regarded as one of the best young defenders in the Liga – already being heavily linked with moves to Real Madrid's rivals, Barcelona.
Laporte is so special Bilbao have let him play for them – a team that insists almost vociferously on all their players having been born in the Basque region. Laporte's also got a decent burst of pace that lets him catch up with quick forwards. In a game against Barcelona last season, he had the task of marking Lionel Messi and did considerably well for a youngster his age.
Laporte is destined for the top and at Real Madrid could prove to be an excellent addition. Calmness on the ball along with the pseudo-aggressive approach to defending will ensure he's successful for years to come.
#2 Raphael Varane
Many wouldn't expect to see Raphael Varane on this list but as incredible as a defender he is, Varane is prone to plenty of mistakes while defending alongside Sergio Ramos. That could be because the both of them have similar playing styles – tough, quick and rash at times.
However, if Real Madrid could get a more composed deep-lying defender, Varane would excel as the one who tries to nip the threat at the butt. Having already settled into the club, Varane would really do well at Real Madrid as Sergio Ramos' replacement. He's got the right mixture of aggression and intent to succeed at a club of Real Madrid's level.
Varane is a future star for both Real Madrid and France and if he can stay fit, he's the best replacement for the soon-to-be outgoing Los Blancos captain.
#1 Daniele Rugani
Daniele Rugani is a frustrated pot of gold sitting on the Juventus bench. Possibly one of the best young defenders we've seen in recent years, Rugani has it all. He's quick, his reading of the game is excellent but the one thing where he would excel when compared to the others is his ability to put in a perfectly timed tackle almost every single time.
With a successful pass percentage of 88.3%, Rugani is a good passer making sure there are no unnecessary turnovers at the edge of his own box. Possibly the next breed of Italian defenders, Rugani will do well at Real Madrid especially as one who could so aptly replace Ramos. He's also quick and tough at the same time – a potent combination for the modern-day central defender.
But if Real Madrid want to go in for him, it'll cost them a bit – not that it might stop them if they really want their man.
