Why Real Madrid should pursue Pau Torres as a long-term defensive addition
According to La Razon (h/t ESPN), Real Madrid are hoping to sign Pau Torres from Villarreal. However, it would not be a straightforward deal, with the Blancos set to ask for Samuel Chukwueze too and offer €65million plus Jesus Reinier or Dani Ceballos. Torres has attracted the attention of several top clubs such as Manchester United and Arsenal so far.
Profile
The 23-year-old rose through the ranks of Villarreal’s youth system and was promoted to the club’s senior setup in the summer of 2018. After struggling to find regular game time, he was sent on loan to Malaga, where he developed himself.
Since his return to La Ceramica, Torres has established himself as the first-choice centre-back under Javier Calleja. He is one of the most promising young talents in Spain and his impressive performances have also garnered attention from elite teams. The youngster has made over 50 appearances for Villarreal, scoring three and assisting two goals (source – Transfermarkt).
Torres also earned a call-up to the national team last October and scored within a few minutes into his debut against Malta. So far, he has made 7 appearances for the national side.
Pau Torres could be the solution to Real Madrid’s defensive woes
It is no secret that Real Madrid have been sub-par this season and while the attack has been a concern, it is their defence that paints an even grimmer picture. The club are placed fourth in La Liga, having conceded 10 goals in 9 games. Even in their opening three Champions League games, they secured just one win, conceding a whopping 7 goals.
Their defensive issues came to the fore in their loss to Valencia, where they somehow inexplicably conceded three penalties and even gifted an own goal. The ever-reliable Sergio Ramos has looked below par this season and Varane looks like a pale shadow of his former self.
If Real Madrid are to solve this defensive crisis, they should look no further than Pau Torres of Villarreal. The Spaniard has made huge strides in the last few seasons. His stock is rising after each passing game and rightfully so.
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Torres represents a good investment for the future that could produce rich dividends. Despite the young age, he is fairly experienced and that could benefit the club. Real Madrid would be foolish to not act on their January interest in the player and even if they don’t pursue Chukwueze, they should pursue Torres.
