Never Mind Haaland And Mbappé, Next Season Will Hinge On Defensive Deals

It’s incredible that, with the Spanish league trophy already in hand and a Champions League final edging closer, much of the noise surrounding Real Madrid concerns a young man who isn’t even there. That man is, of course, French striker Kylian Mbappé, who isn’t yet signed, sealed and delivered as Real’s next recruit, unlike Erling Haaland, whose future is sewn-up with Manchester City after incessant speculation. Both characters will define the excitement and dictate predictions when the season closes and August ushers in the next.

With his Paris Saint-Germain contract set to expire, Mbappé’s free transfer sum won’t match his grand unveiling as Real’s new galáctico should he complete the move many expect. On the contrary, his contract would be expensive and potentially massive if Real offloads other high earners to free up wage expenditure. Reports suggest annual figures not far off €50 million ($52 million) for Mbappé—which may not match the bumper amount Paris Saint-Germain is considering spending to keep him. As for Haaland, his joining fee will cost City more upfront after the side decided to activate his release clause.

When factoring in image rights and their prominence in coveted award shortlists like the Ballon d’Or, it’s easy to see why many are touting highly valued forwards as the soon-to-be game-changers in shaping the mentioned clubs’ fortunes. Yet, players in the backline will probably make the ultimate difference in deciding which teams are ultimately successful over dozens of competitive games next season, which will be interrupted by a winter World Cup. That’s quite convenient because there is a string of decisive, defensive transfers in the pipeline.

Transfer merry-go-round ahead

Antonio Rüdiger, arguably Chelsea’s best defender, is likely headed to Real. As well as strengthening the La Liga champion and temporarily weakening the Blues, it will have a knock-on effect around Europe, with other decisions resulting from the imminent switch.

Without the German and with new ownership finding its feet, Chelsea will be ready to make a statement signing when it can. There are other positions to address, but filling the defensive void will be high on the agenda, and Spain provides the right market for that.

Jules Koundé has stayed put at Sevilla, but continuing there is unsustainable for him and the club. Sevilla’s La Liga chase tailed off a couple of months ago, and the Frenchman—young and wiry but an imposing presence at the back—is good enough to thrive in the Premier League, where he can take the next step. Meanwhile, Sevilla knows how to drive a hard bargain and will only consider a serious offer from Chelsea (Spanish), which could fulfill its demands. If all goes to plan, new U.S. owner Todd Boehly will financially reinvigorate the Blues and give it the necessary spending power. Knowing Sevilla, its expert recruiters will be ready with a replacement.

An unshakable Real Madrid

The Rudiger-Kounde-Sevilla replacement triangle appears to benefit Real the most. Carlo Ancelotti’s squad has conceded the second-fewest goals in La Liga, despite missing a natural leader following Sergio Ramos’ exit to Paris. Rüdiger will only improve matters, and even if an incoming Mbappé takes time to settle—with the eyes of the world on him—the defense will be there to grind out results.

Any opposition to Los Blancos will likely come from usual suspects Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. Barcelona is not in a position to make expensive, wholesale changes to its team but will relish another chance to respond to Xavi’s methods, with Pedri, Gavi and Ronald Araújo amongst those growing into their roles as young trailblazers.

Atlético’s situation doesn’t concern transfers but whether manager Diego Simeone can get his group fighting for him again. After its title heroics, its relentless intensity has eased, making it an easier opponent of late.

Premier League still open—just

Regarding the outlook in England, Haaland’s move to City has already set a narrative; if Pep Guardiola’s team was already too good, now it looks indestructible.

Sure, the transfer may clinch further titles. Yet the Norwegian will need time to adjust to City’s attacking setup, which has often incorporated attacking midfielders into the forward positions instead of trademark strikers like Haaland. Equally vital for City is keeping its defenders fit and firing while that adaptation happens.

And then there is Liverpool, whose defenders have taken it back to the top table after a period of injuries set it back. And don’t underestimate Chelsea. If Koundé arrives, he will need a good preseason but is good enough to hit the ground running. Chelsea showed incredible consistency until City and Liverpool pulled away. The next race will be closer if it can sustain that level for 50 to 60 games.