Alkorta: Real Madrid need to sign two defenders

Former Real Madrid favourite Rafa Alkorta has called on the club to sign two defenders when the Spanish transfer window opens in December.

Real were rocked by little AEK Athens in midweek, conceding three goals in the absence of veteran sweeper Fernando Hierro.

Alkorta won the Champions League playing alongside Hierro in 1997 - a season in which Real conceded just 36 goals, a club record.

"To play next to Fernando makes everything easier," said Alkorta.

"His quality, experience, positioning and passing makes it easier for the one who is at his side."

"Real needs more central defenders with so many important games and so many competitions in front of them. They must look for an alternative to Fernando Hierro, because it is clear that the day will come when he is no longer there."

"I believe that Real Madrid need at least two new central defenders this season. With the three they have, I believe that it is not sufficient."