Real Madrid sign 18-year-old centre-back prospect from La Liga club | OneFootball

Real Madrid have been firm on not wanting to make any first-team signings in the ongoing January transfer window. However, they have been working at strengthening the youth ranks with new arrivals.

The Merengues have already roped in Lamini Fati from Leganes to reinforce the youth academy and have now sealed another young talent.

Real Madrid sign Joel Pleguezuelos

Indeed, according to journalist Rodra P, Real Madrid have signed Joel Pleguezuelos, a standout player from Espanyol’s Juvenil A team.

The centre-back, 18, is a tall, physically powerful, and right-footed defender who will arrive to strengthen the Juvenil A team under the guidance of Alvaro Arbeloa.

Known for his aerial ability and composure on the ball, he has consistently impressed coaches and scouts throughout his youth career.

Joel Pleguezuelos has said goodbye to Espanyol (Source: Instagram)

Having started his footballing journey with Manresa and later spent time at the Gimnastic youth setup, Pleguezuelos was scooped by the Espanyol academy at the Under-12 stage where he transitioned from a full-back to a centre-back.

The 18-year-old has developed nicely during his time with the Catalan club’s youth academy, with Real Madrid having been interested in him for some time.

Indeed, scouts and coaches from the club closely monitored his performances, praising his defensive reliability, aerial dominance, and ability to build from the back.

Recently, his parents were invited to the Santiago Bernabuu as part of the negotiation process, which culminated in the official signing.

Pleguezuelos’ addition reinforces Real Madrid’s commitment to nurturing top defensive talent within their academy. Alongside Lamini Fati, he represents a promising future for the club’s backline.