A Free Bargain for Real Madrid

Real Madrid are eyeing Bayer 04 Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah in an effort to strengthen their defense next year.
In a recent report, Fichajes stated that Real Madrid are keeping an eye on Jonathan Tah, Bayer 04 Leverkusen’s defender. Los Blancos want to sign the German center-back in the summer of 2025, but they will face competition from Barcelona, Inter Milan, Bayern Munich, and Manchester United in this race.

Tah’s impressive form in the Bundesliga

Tah has delivered impressive performances at the heart of Bayer Leverkusen’s defense this season. After 10 appearances, he has scored one goal across all competitions. Of course, what has convinced many about Tah is his solid defensive abilities.

The 28-year-old defender is a rock at the back for the German champions. He averages 0.8 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, and 2.8 clearances per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga. Tah is also proficient with the ball, boasting a pass success rate of 94.4% (according to WhoScored).

His current contract with the German club is set to expire at the end of this season. This could be an opportunity for Los Blancos and other clubs to open preliminary talks with Tah in the winter, before signing him on a free transfer next summer.

Is Tah a good option for Carlo Ancelotti?

Tah is a defender known for his tough duels. Moreover, he reads the game well, which allows him to sense danger and recover possession for his team. His long stride gives him an advantage in duels, clearances, and tackles. The German international can use his 1.95m height to dominate attacking players in aerial duels (winning 72% last season). He’s even capable of advancing the ball and building up play from the back—something any coach would value.

With his skill set, Tah is fully capable of fighting for and securing a regular starting position in Madrid’s first team for the coming years. He would elevate Carlo Ancelotti’s defensive line, especially as Real Madrid’s backline has not been at its best, forcing the Italian coach to deploy Aurelien Tchouameni as a center-back on several occasions.

At 28, Tah is at the peak of his career. His experience will allow him to comfortably adapt to a new environment and team, just as he wishes. Tah’s agent, Pini Zahavi, has confirmed that his client wants to leave in search of new challenges in his career: “After 9 years of dedication and helping the team win the Bundesliga last season, he wants to take the next step in his career.”

With his contract expiring at Leverkusen, Tah would be a sensible choice for Los Blancos to consider in the summer of 2025.