Real Madrid hopes to continue the success achieved with Alaba and Rüdiger by signing a center-back on a free transfer.

Signing a center-back remains Real Madrid’s top priority. The transfer of Marc Guehi to Manchester City and the contract renewal of Dayot Upamecano have significantly reduced Real Madrid’s options. Real Madrid hopes to continue using the signing strategy of David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger in this position, both of whom joined on a free transfer and have performed well. 

Nonetheless, Real Madrid is still seeking solutions through both the market and the youth academy. Joan Martínez is a gem nurtured internally, while Jácobo Ramón is gradually gaining recognition at Como. Real Madrid has always been clear that they do not want to participate in the high-price bidding among top clubs for players whose contracts are about to expire.

Previously, the three players Real Madrid was interested in were Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konate, and Nathan Aké. Bayern Munich is about to announce a contract extension with 27-year-old Upamecano, and another target that is no longer possible is Aké, whom Real Madrid once contacted his agent, but Manchester City signed him in January for 23 million euros.

Gueye’s transfer to Manchester City could impact Konate’s situation, who is another major target for Real Madrid. Unable to sign Gueye, Liverpool may go all out to renew Konate’s contract, despite his performance having clearly declined this season. 

Konate is represented by Stelaar, a company that once represented Bale and currently represents Camavinga, and has a good relationship with Real Madrid. The good news is that Real Madrid doesn’t have to rely entirely on the market to strengthen this position; they can look into internal resources.

People still expect Militão to return to his best form, Huijsen should continue to improve when the wind is favorable, and Raúl Asensio has proven himself to be a pillar. Additionally, there is a possibility of recalling Jácobo Ramón, who has performed well in Como.

Real Madrid sold Ramón for 2.5 million euros and now has the option to buy him back for 8 million euros. Additionally, high hopes are placed on the progress of Joan Martínez, who was even more highly regarded than Raúl Asencio before suffering a knee injury two years ago.