The player in question is Jacobo Ramón, the 21-year-old Spanish centre-back currently shining at Serie A side Como. Ramón, who stands at an imposing 196cm (6ft 5in), left Real Madrid’s youth system last summer for just €2.5m after limited senior exposure (six appearances), but has since become a regular starter under Cesc Fàbregas at Como. His performances—marked by aerial dominance, composure on the ball, strong passing range, and clean sheets—have drawn widespread attention, positioning him as a high-potential ball-playing defender ideal for modern systems.
Reliable reports from CaughtOffside (January 18, 2026) and echoed across Yardbarker, TEAMtalk, and other outlets confirm Liverpool and Chelsea have sent scouts to monitor Ramón closely. The Reds, under Arne Slot, view him as a potential long-term addition to address defensive depth concerns amid injuries (Conor Bradley out for the season) and contract uncertainties (Ibrahima Konaté in his final six months). Chelsea, transitioning under Liam Rosenior, have prioritized centre-backs this window (links to Rennes’ Jérémy Jacquet and others), with Ramón’s profile fitting their youth-focused rebuild emphasizing technical ability and resale value.
Real Madrid hold a buy-back clause in Ramón’s deal, giving Los Blancos priority if they activate it—though no move has materialized yet, despite their own defensive needs (uncertainties over David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger). This clause could complicate or block a Premier League switch, but reports suggest Como are open to a sale for the right fee (likely €10-20m range, given his rapid rise), especially if European clubs push hard.
Ramón’s attributes make him a standout prospect: towering height for set-piece dominance, left-footed preference for build-up play, and U21 Spain caps showcasing international pedigree. Comparisons to Virgil van Dijk have surfaced due to his physical presence and ball-playing qualities, though he’s still developing consistency at elite levels.
For Liverpool, this fits broader recruitment trends—targeting young, high-upside defenders (e.g., summer academy additions like Mor Talla Ndiaye and Ifeanyi Ndukwe)—while Chelsea’s interest aligns with Rosenior’s emphasis on structured, possession-oriented backlines. Neither club has made concrete bids public yet, with January activity remaining measured (Liverpool quiet post-Guéhi setback, Chelsea pursuing targeted additions).
Fan buzz on platforms like X highlights excitement over Ramón’s “beast” potential, with discussions noting how his height and former Madrid ties could make him a bargain if Real pass. A move would represent smart business for either side—adding physicality and future value without massive outlay—amid crowded races involving Tottenham and others.
Whether this develops into a January deal or pushes to summer remains uncertain, but the dual interest from two Premier League heavyweights underscores Ramón’s rising stock as one of Serie A’s breakout talents. (Word count: 852)
