Four potential candidates to replace Sergio Ramos

Real Madrid are uncertain what will happen with several of their important players for next season. Luka Modric, Lucas Vazquez and Sergio Ramos all see their contracts expire and there is still no developments. The captain's future is the one that most concerns the club as there is no player in the team who is seen as a clear replacement for him. They need a reliable defender who can also be the leader on the park. 

The club are preparing for the possibility Ramos may not continue at the club and so they are looking for a plan B. 'AS' reports there are four options for 'Los Blancos'. 

The first option is the favourite, David Alaba. As Dayot Upamecano has gone to Munich, it is even further proof that he will not stay at the club. Real Madrid have already shown interest in him and he would arrive as a free agent. The only problem is that he demands a very large salary, one which would affect the club's coffers.

He is the player with the most experience out of all of them and, because of his character, he could be the one most suited to Sergio Ramos' role. As well as having to offer him a large salary, Madrid know they would have to pay his agent, Pini Zahavi, a lot of money. 

Kalidou Koulibaly's name was talked about at Madrid in the past. He has a very good track record, but Napoli are not planning to sell him unless they do not make the Champions League. They are currently sixth. He is 29, one year older than Alaba. 

However, Real Madrid could also decide to look to the future. Someone who has already shown what he is capable of, but could get even better at Real Madrid.

Jules Kounde is the number one target if they use this criteria. He had a sensational match against Barca and that made people stand up and take notice of him. Sevilla, who are great negotiators, know that they can get very good money for him if they decide to sell him.

His buyout clause is 90 million euros, an amount which cannot be paid in the current climate. Man City offered 55 million euros months back, but the Spanish club rejected the offer. Only a major offer will see Kounde leave Seville. 

Therefore, Real Madrid are not ruling out a cheaper option. Pau Torres is a central defender who is coming on leaps and bounds. He is a nailed on starter under Unai Emery at Villarreal and Luis Enrique's preferred option to play alongside Sergio Ramos in the Spanish national team.

His buyout clause is 50 million euros, but the Yellow Submarine could negotiate a departure for less. He is very good playing out from the back and in superb shape.