January move could be on the cards for top Real Madrid defensive target

Jonathan Tah has emerged as one of the top names linked with a move to Real Madrid, with the January transfer window just around the corner.

Following Eder Militao’s ACL injury, Real Madrid have stepped up their pursuit of a new centre-back, who can accompany Antonio Rudiger at the heart of the team’s four-man backline.

While Real Madrid have been linked with moves for Gleison Bremer and Aymeric Laporte, Tah has emerged as a much more feasible candidate in recent days.

Jonathan Tah: A serious option for Real Madrid in January

A recent report from Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg has confirmed that Real Madrid are indeed looking at Tah seriously.

The reigning European champions are yet to establish any concrete negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen yet. But it must be remembered that Tah was linked with the club last summer as well.

Plettenberg adds that a January move for Tah cannot be ruled out, especially with Real Madrid pushing for it harder than ever.

The German international’s current deal at Leverkusen expires at the end of the season, meaning the player will become a free agent next summer.

Real Madrid’s idea was to sign Tah on a free transfer at the end of the season. However, their ongoing injury crisis in defence has forced the club to consider a January move for the defender.

That said, Real Madrid are set to face stiff competition from Bayern Munich. The Bavarian giants remain interested in signing Tah, though they are mainly weighing up a free transfer in the summer of 2025.