Real Madrid captain Dani Carvajal will bid goodbye to the club this weekend, with Saturday's La Liga clash against Athletic Club set to be his last one in the royal white jersey.
The Spaniard's impending departure will come as a blow, given the value he brought to the team with his experience, winning mentality, and leadership.
Beyond that, Real Madrid will now have to find a replacement to cover at right-back, with Trent Alexander-Arnold expected to continue as the first-choice starter in the position.
Names such as Pedro Porro of Tottenham and Diogo Dalot of Manchester United are well-liked at the club, but moves for them are seen as unfeasible.
As such, AS reports that Real Madrid could decide to promote one of two academy prospects – Jesus Fortea or David Jimenez .
One of the brightest gems in La Fabrica , the 19-year-old Fortea is 1.75m tall and has a very attacking profile. It must be remembered that Real Madrid broke the non-aggression pact with Atletico Madrid to sign him from their academy a few years ago.
Jesus Fortea is highly-rated. (Photo by Ben Roberts Photo/Getty Images)
Upon his arrival at the age of 15, Fortea was immediately dubbed the natural heir to Carvajal in the first team.
However, the youngster had to go through some uncertain times through the academy ranks when he was made to remain with Real Madrid C instead of moving up to Castilla. Once he finally did move up, he found it difficult to establish himself in the position.
But, Fortea managed to work his way into the team while also being a key player in the Juvenil A's UEFA Youth League-winning squad.
Fast and skilful, the 19-year-old is known for his attacking intent, but still needs work on the defensive aspect of his game. Seen as a big bet for the future at Real Madrid, he has a contract until 2029.
David Jimenez has already made his senior debut. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
Meanwhile, the other homegrown option Real Madrid are considering happens to be David Jimenez – a player described as a complete team player the silent leader. At Valdebebas, they praise his professionalism and his attitude.
Jimenez arrived at La Fabrica in 2013 from Mostoles URJC, with current first-team manager Alvaro Arbeloa being his idol. He has gradually climbed through the youth categories until wearing the captain's armband at Castilla.
On December 17, the 22-year-old made his debut with the first team for Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey clash against Talavera, under Xabi Alonso. He has played in three more matches since, even starting against Valencia .
Jimenez is seen as a solid but unspectacular player, someone who rarely makes mistakes but does not always stand out either – almost like former club captain and legend Nacho Fernandez.
It remains to be seen if it is Fortea or Jimenez who gets promoted to the first team next season or whether Real Madrid decide to sign someone from outside.
