Real Madrid transfer news: Los Blancos eye summer swoop for "one of the brightest talents in Italian football"

By Matt Law | 01 Apr 2026 19:29, Last updated: 01 Apr 2026 19:30

"One of the brightest talents in Italian football" - Real Madrid eye summer swoop for wonderkid

Real Madrid are reportedly 'closely monitoring' Honest Ahanor and could make a move for the Atalanta BC defender during this summer's transfer window.

The 18-year-old started his professional career with Genoa before making the move to Atalanta last summer, and the centre-back has been a strong performer during the 2025-26 campaign.

Ahanor has made 28 appearances for Atalanta this term, including nine appearances in the Champions League, and it is understood that his performances have caught the attention of a number of major clubs.

The teenager made his debut for Italy Under-21s against Sweden Under-21s on Tuesday evening and is already being tipped as a future full international.

Real Madrid 'eyeing' summer deal for Atalanta's Ahanor

According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on Ahanor, with the Spanish giants 'impressed' by the youngster's performances.

Di Marzio has branded Ahanor "one of the brightest talents in Italian football".

Atalanta are in a strong spot when it comes to the teenager's future, with his contract due to run until June 2028, although it will be incredibly difficult for the Italian outfit to keep hold of him on a long-term basis.

Ahanor is primarily a centre-back, but he is also capable of featuring as a left-back, which makes him an even more attractive proposition for interested clubs.

Real Madrid are set to add defensive reinforcements this summer

It is set to be a busy summer for Real Madrid, with Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia all facing uncertain futures at Bernabeu.

Rudiger could sign a new contract, but Alaba is expected to be allowed to leave on a free transfer, while Mendy and Garcia could both be sold.

As a result, there is expected to be space in the squad for at least one defender to arrive, and bringing in Ahanor would be a statement of intent from the capital giants.