Real Madrid identify Liverpool-linked defender as transfer target ahead of January window: Reports

Real Madrid have reportedly earmarked Bologna centre-back Sam Beukema, who has lately been linked with a move to Liverpool, as a winter transfer target.

Beukema, who turned 26 earlier this month, has emerged as one of the Serie A's best centre-backs since departing AZ Alkmaar for close to £7 million in 2023. He helped Bologna achieve a UEFA Champions League place last season.

So far this season, Beukema has started 15 of his 16 appearances across all competitions for Vincenzo Italiano's side. He has helped his current club keep four clean sheets and provided one assist in 1,367 minutes of first-team action.

Now, according to Spanish news website Fichajes.net, Real Madrid are interested in roping in Beukema in the upcoming January transfer window. They are likely to face competition from city rivals Atletico Madrid in the transfer race.

Furthermore, Los Blancos manager Carlo Ancelotti is believed to be a fan of the Dutchman's style of play. He is of the opinion that the Bologna player could fill the void left by Eder Militao and David Alaba's respective long-term injuries.

On the other hand, Liverpool have identified Beukema as a potential replacement for captain Virgil van Dijk, as per Caught Offside. They view the Go Ahead Eagles academy product as a more affordable option than Goncalo Inacio and Murillo.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois says Liverpool will be hoping to exact revenge soon

Ahead of Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League match at Liverpool this Wednesday, Thibaut Courtois shared his thoughts on the Merseyside outfit. He said (h/t Mundo Deportivo):

"Liverpool are a team with a new coach after many years with [Jurgen] Klopp. Now with Arne Slot, they are a very dynamic, offensive team, with the same dynamic... with a lot of pressure, a lot of attacks, good counterattacks and a lot of speed up front."

Opining on the Reds' history with Real Madrid, the Belgian added:

"Playing at Anfield is a plus for them. They will surely be very keen [to beat] us because they lost the final in Paris [in 2022] and the last-16 clashes in 2023. They will want that little revenge and we hope to win."

Liverpool are currently atop the UEFA Champions League standings with 12 points from four games, while Los Merengues are in 18th place with six points.

The Reds boast a poor head-to-head record against Real Madrid. They have registered one draw and seven losses in their last eight games against Los Blancos.