Ghana defender Oscar Naasei starts next chapter with Real Madrid Castilla

Real Madrid have officially signed Ghanaian defender Oscar Naasei from Granada, with the 21-year-old set to join the club’s reserve side, Castilla, as part of their long-term plan to develop young talent.

Naasei, who can play at centre-back or right-back, has agreed to move to the Spanish giants after attracting attention with his performances for Granada. The defender is 1.85 metres tall and is regarded as a physically strong player who can adapt to different defensive roles.

Real Madrid had been monitoring Naasei’s progress since last season before deciding to complete the deal. According to Spanish newspaper AS, the transfer is worth about two million euros.

The agreement is expected to run for two years, with the possibility of being extended to five if Naasei is promoted to Real Madrid’s first team.

Naasei joined Granada’s academy in 2023 after arriving from Emmanuel City’s academy in Ghana. He progressed quickly through the club’s age-group teams and eventually moved into the reserve set-up.

His first-team debut came in the Segunda Division during the 2024-25 season. The Ghanaian defender has also played in Granada’s opening two matches of the current campaign, performances which further strengthened Real Madrid’s interest in securing his signature.

The move to Castilla represents the latest step in Naasei’s development after his emergence at Granada. Real Madrid see his physical qualities and defensive versatility as important attributes for a player who could continue progressing within the club’s La Fabrica academy system.

Castilla has traditionally provided a pathway for young players seeking to reach Real Madrid’s senior squad, and Naasei will now continue his development within that structure. His ability to operate both centrally and on the right side of defence gives the club an additional option while he adapts to a new environment.

Real Madrid confirmed the move on Thursday evening, announcing that Naasei would join Castilla rather than the first-team squad immediately.

The club’s official announcement stated:

“OFFICIAL: Real Madrid have signed Oscar Naasei (21, CB/RB) from Granada. He will play for Castilla.”

Naasei’s arrival gives Real Madrid another young defensive prospect to work with as they continue to strengthen their development pathway. His progress at Granada, including his early involvement with the first team and his appearances at the start of the current season, helped persuade the club that he could be a player with room to grow at La Fabrica.