Real Madrid Transfers: 10 Players They Must Sign This Summer

Defence isn't exactly a pressing need for Real Madrid this summer. They already boast two of the world's best centre-backs in the shape of Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane, neither of whom appear to be heading for the exit door.

But, for the European elite, transfer dealings are as much about getting one over on your rivals as they are strengthening your own team, making the signing of Ajax wonderkid and purported Barcelona target Matthijs de Ligt a very plausible possibility.

It's not as though this would be a bad move for their own future either. Ramos is a superstar, but he's also the wrong side of 30. Pretty soon, he won't be able to compete at the highest level on a consistent basis.

De Ligt is, in many ways, his perfect replacement, having shown the same commanding presence during his performances in the Netherlands despite barely being old enough to drive.