Real Madrid have high hopes on three young full-backs – report | OneFootball

According to a report by Jose Felix Diaz of MARCA, Real Madrid believe that players like Alex Jimenez, Jesus Fortea, and Melvin Ukpeigbe have the potential to become key right-backs for their first team in the future.

Because of this belief, Real Madrid made sure to include a buy-back option when they allowed Alex Jimenez to leave for AC Milan permanently.

As previously reported, the Serie A club has decided to use the purchase option in Jimenez’s contract. They will pay €5 million for him, with the amount possibly increasing to €7 million if certain conditions are met.

Interestingly, this transfer fee is the highest amount ever paid for a player from Real Madrid’s youth academy who has never made an appearance for the senior team.

Curious case of young full-backs

The situation of the full-backs, especially Jimenez, in Real Madrid’s academy, is worth noting. The 19-year-old has always stood out in the youth categories, but sometimes his personality has worked against him.

Real Madrid have included a buy-back clause in Alex Jimenez’s contract. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)

Despite these challenges, Real Madrid recognise his potential. This is why they insisted on a buyback clause, giving them the option to bring him back if he continues to develop as expected. They also hope to benefit from any future transfer involving him.

What about the rest?

Real Madrid’s management sees Jimenez, along with Fortea and Ukpeigbe, as future prospects for the first team.

Fortea might even get a chance to join the first team during their summer tour. As far as Melvin is concerned, the 17-year-old spent the last season on loan to Bayer Leverkusen, gaining valuable experience.

These three players are viewed as having the potential to one day wear Real Madrid’s famous white jersey.

The club’s youth system continues to be a valuable source of talent and revenue. For example, Rafa Marin is close to securing a transfer, possibly to Napoli or a club in the Bundesliga, which could result in a €12-15 million fee for the central defender.