Real Madrid is grappling with a defensive injury scare involving Dean Huijsen while simultaneously battling Newcastle United for the summer signature of Dutch starlet Kees Smit.
Real Madrid face a growing availability crisis ahead of their New Year fixture against Real Betis following the absence of Dean Huijsen from team training.
The 20-year-old defender joined Kylian Mbappe on the sidelines, with the latter already confirmed to miss the upcoming match and potentially the Spanish Super Cup semi-final.
Huijsen’s absence creates a significant tactical headache for manager Xabi Alonso, especially with Eder Militao remains sidelined with a long-term injury.
The shortage of defensive options leaves Alonso reliant on Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, though concerns persist regarding their current workload and form.
While “Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba are available,” Alaba has notably struggled to reach his peak performance levels since returning from injury.
Alonso is expected to provide further clarification on Huijsen’s status during his pre-match press conference, as the club seeks a stable backline to counter Betis’ attacking threat.
Off the pitch, Real Madrid’s pursuit of AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit has been complicated by intense interest from Newcastle United.
The 19-year-old is valued at approximately €60 million, a price tag intended to ward off January bidders. While “almost all the big clubs in Europe are interested,” Newcastle has reportedly made Smit their primary target.
Madrid remains patient with their scouting, though they now face a serious financial rival for the teenager’s signature come summer.