Real Madrid’s basketball team is actively searching the market for a center capable of giving Tavares a much-needed rest. Bruno Fernando has failed to convince Sergio Scariolo as a reliable backup, as shown by his absence in the last two games — against San Pablo Burgos on Sunday, when Tavares was unavailable, and against Maccabi on Wednesday. While the club decides on Fernando’s future, Los Blancos are exploring both the NBA and European markets for a dependable replacement. Among the names linked are Alex Len, Precious Achiuwa, and Vincent Poirier.

The most recognizable name on the list is Ukrainian center Alex Len. Standing at 2.13 meters, he previously worked under Scariolo during the 2020/21 season with the Toronto Raptors, when the Italian served as an assistant coach. Now a free agent after being released by the Lakers, Len brings 12 years of NBA experience. He’s known as a traditional center — strong on rebounds and in the paint — while also offering a decent mid-range shot.

The U.S. market always carries some risk, as players must adapt to FIBA basketball and different tactical roles. Real Madrid’s recent signings reflect that uncertainty. Dennis Smith Jr. and Bruno Fernando didn’t meet expectations: the guard barely played, and the center is now on his way out. However, other recent arrivals tell a different story. The appointment of Martynas Pocius as Director of Scouting, with expertise in the NBA market, led to the signings of Trey Lyles and Chuma Okeke — both of whom have quickly become key figures in Scariolo’s rotation.

This renewed confidence has encouraged Real Madrid to keep exploring American talent. On the NBA discard list, names like Precious Achiuwa, Mo Bamba, and Skal Labissière have emerged. However, all potential recruits must hold a Cotonou passport — a key requirement given that the club already has three non-EU players (Deck, Okeke, and Lyles) and can only register two of them in the Endesa League.

One option that excites Madrid fans is the possible return of Vincent Poirier. The French center already formed one of Europe’s most dominant duos alongside Tavares. Although Poirier still has one guaranteed year left on his contract with Efes, plus an optional second, the Turkish club is unlikely to let him go easily. The player himself fueled speculation with a cryptic hourglass emoji on social media platform X. Poirier remains a fan favorite at the Movistar Arena, where he often receives a warm ovation from the crowd.

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