The Spaniard is a liability defensively, though, and has struggled against top opponents in Europe. The most recent example came when Real Madrid played PSG in the Club World Cup semifinals, and he was outclassed by Achraf Hakimi and Désiré Doué.

Even on a net basis, the 12 European clubs have already spent more than their collective Club World Cup earnings on transfers.

Real Madrid has now paused its transfer activity. Following the signings of Huijsen, Alexander-Arnold, Mastantuono, and Carreras, the list of viable targets is shrinking. Xabi Alonso wants to add a midfielder and a center-back, but those reinforcements will only arrive if the club identifies a strong market opportunity.