Real Madrid GM Jorge Valdano has confirmed they will seek a new defensive signing in January. With Pepe ruled out for the season with a knee injury, Valdano revealed: "We cannot rule out buying, but nothing is certain because the winter market is a difficult one.

"Pepe is an irreplaceable player. In the market there is none like him. Starting tomorrow, we will consider if we will be better to go as we are, or bring someone new in."

There is talk that coach Manuel Pellegrini has told Valdano he doesn't need to replace Pepe and instead the focus should remain on finding a new left-back.

Pellegrini is confident the likes of Raul Albiol, Christophe Metzelder and Ezequiel Garay are all capable of stepping into the breach.