Former Athletic Bilbao sporting director Rafael Alkorta has advised Real Madrid to look to Arsenal’s young center-back William Saliba over Al-Nassr defender Aymeric Laporte in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Alkorta believes that investing in Saliba, a promising 22-year-old French talent, would offer long-term benefits for Madrid, with potential to secure the club’s defense for a decade, unlike the 30-year-old Laporte who would offer only a short-term solution.

Alkorta, who has been closely involved in Spanish football for years, suggested that Saliba’s qualities would fit Real Madrid’s tradition of making smart investments in young talents.

Since joining Arsenal from Saint-Etienne, Saliba has grown into one of Europe’s most exciting defenders, impressing with his physicality, composure, and tactical awareness.

His performances have contributed significantly to Arsenal’s recent success, making him a sought-after name among top clubs.

At just 22, he has a high resale value and the potential to become a cornerstone in any backline.

In contrast, Aymeric Laporte, though a proven defender with significant experience in La Liga and the Premier League, might not be an ideal long-term option for Los Blancos.

Laporte, currently playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, is an excellent defender, known for his strong passing skills and experience.

He played a pivotal role at Manchester City, where he contributed to multiple titles before making the move to Saudi Arabia in the summer.

However, given his age, Laporte would be more of a short-term reinforcement than a strategic long-term investment.

Speaking with Cadena SER, Alkorta shared his views, stating, I would hold off on a January signing and wait to consider Laporte only as a backup option.

Real Madrid is cautious about their transfers and usually makes few mistakes in this area.

Spending 80 million euros on a young, promising player like Saliba could mean 10 years of stability for the team’s defense, Alkorta added.

Manchester United’s new defender, Matthijs De Ligt, speaks on Erik Ten Hag dismissal. The former manager, Ten Hag, signed in the defender during the summer transfer.

The player states that his move is not solely based on Ten Hag and he will do his own thing and play well. “Yes, but Man United is still one of the biggest clubs in the world. I just have to do my own thing and play well myself”

De Ligt also shares that is has been quite difficult to cope with the change since the dismissal of Erik Ten Hag. Although the Defender states he is determined to make his contribution to the team a good one.

The match between The Super Eagles and Benin Republic will be located in Abidjan, Ivory Coast at 8pm tonight. The Coach of Super Eagles, Eguavoen has chosen the 3-4-3 formation for this match to boost the team’s defense.

The defensive line will be anchored by Captain William Troost-Ekong, he will be partnered with Calvin Bassey and Gabriel Osho. The wing-back positions will be taken by Ola Aina and Boavista’s Bruno Onyemaechi, both players are known for their contribution in the defensive side.

Wilfed Ndidi will be placed in the midfield and working alongside will be Alex Iwobi. The Upfront will be taken by Victor Osimhen supported by player Ademola Lookman and Kelechi Iheanacho.