Real Madrid are working on a host of deals to bring in a new central defender in the January transfer window.

Los Blancos are in the middle of a defensive injury crisis, with David Alaba now ruled out for the season after undergoing knee surgery, and Eder Militao potentially out until 2024/25.

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed he is open to bringing in a defensive reinforcement in the mid-season market but the veteran Italian is assessing his options.

One rumoured move was a push to bring Rafa Marin back from a season long loan spell at Alaves with the 21-year-old playing a key role in the Basque Country in the opening half of the campaign.

However, there is no clause in his contract to bring him back early, and the towering defender has hinted at his desire to stay at Alaves.

“I am very proud to be part of this team, through thick and thin.”

Ancelotti will continue to assess his options in the coming weeks with a loan deal for an experienced defender the most likely outcome.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Three takeaways as Panthers eliminate Rangers, advance to Stanley Cup Final
Corey Heim dominates at Gateway for fourth Truck Series win of 2024 season
Mets honor Darryl Strawberry in fitting fashion during number retirement ceremony
Phillies ace leaves game after taking 106 mph comebacker to hand
Real Madrid defeats Borussia Dortmund 2-0 to win Champions League
Marvin Lewis opens up about about return to NFL coaching
Celtics HC shares Kristaps Porzingis update ahead of NBA Finals
Jalen Brunson claps back at tiredness narrative after Knicks' playoff exit
Red Sox lose yet another player to injury
Former NFL GM has huge praise for Packers QB Jordan Love
Drake Maye reportedly being treated as Patriots' QB3
Veteran 1B rejects outright assignment, elects free agency
Giannis Antetokounmpo to play for Greece in Olympic qualifier
Padres lose two top pitchers to injured list on same day
Fever announce remarkable attendance milestone in fifth 2024 home game
Senators reportedly undecided on qualifying defenseman
Lamar Jackson's curious offseason decision costing him significant money
Blue Jays two-time All-Star pitcher lands on IL for second time this season
Lakers set to benefit from Pelicans’ NBA Draft decision
One rookie quarterback is showing 'elite downfield accuracy' during OTAs