Real Madrid is looking for a new defensive midfielder, because they finally want to sign a Toni Kroos replacement. They have a strong interest in Manchester City and Spain -Superster Rodri Hernandez, but in fact it could be another Premier League pivot for which they take a step.
That is the opinion of the former Premier League striker Troy Deeney, who has told Talksport (via enchantment) that Real Madrid was able to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton next summer – on condition that Manchester United did not sign him from Brighton during the current transfer star.
“I think United Baleba should get this window, or she doesn't get it. If he still has a good season, I think other teams with Real Madrid and such will come in and go 'Bosh, we will have it'. I think as a man united wants him … if I have them a kind of bullish. Classification).”
It is clear that Real Madrid wants a new defensive midfielder, but it is unlikely that someone will come in before the transfer window will close this summer at the beginning of September. 2026 will almost certainly be the time for them to stop, and if Rodri is not available at that time, Baleba would be an excellent alternative.
At the age of 21 he would fit perfectly for Real Madrid's transfer policy to sign younger players to become stars in the Santiago Bernabeu. They would also not be shy to pay Brighton's asking price for the Cameroon International, so it will be interesting to see if he is someone who enters their thoughts in 2026.