Madrid could have opted for De Ligt, but preferred Militao

Let's get into the situation. Summer of 2019. All the big names in Europe want Ajax's young centre-back De Ligt, who has just had a spectacular season. Madrid, as expected, were among his suitors. But against all odds they ended up opting for Militao.

According to the newspaper 'AS', Real Madrid did the maths. They put the price, availability, and profile in the balance, and the Brazilian came out the winner. A decision that many still find difficult to understand.

Militao is two years older than De Ligt, and cost Madrid 50 million euros, while the Dutchman went to Juventus for 'only' 25 million more (plus another ten and a half in variables).

Militao can also play at RB if he needs to. For now, De Ligt hasn't ventured to play another position that isn't CB.

Madrid did their maths and chose Militao. He saved 25 million and gained some versatility but at the cost of signing a player who, although young, is somewhat older than the other, and who is far from being like the Dutch centre-back.

According to the aforementioned media, Madrid believe in Militao. They believe that, with time and dedication, he can be one of the best central defenders in the world. Not in vain he has already been a full international with Brazil (he went to the last Copa America and played a quarter of an hour of the final against Peru).