Madrid's priority is a right back and a creative midfielder.
The strong form and especially the impressive results with which Real Madrid closed 2024 reaffirm the club's decision not to make any signings in the winter transfer window, despite significant injuries to Carvajal and Militão and the delay in Alaba's recovery.
Madrid remains competitive in all tournaments and occupies a privileged position in LaLiga, with the lead within reach. Therefore, taking advantage of the January transfer window is not currently on the table.
However, preparations for next summer are already in full swing. Circumstances in football can change quickly, and much of the club's strategy will depend on Alaba's recovery during the latter part of the season when he is expected to return to the field.
The Austrian remains a crucial part of the team, but the emergence of youth player Asencio and Ancelotti's adaptation of Tchouaméni to a central defensive role have strengthened the backline.
As a result, signing a centre-back is no longer a priority. Instead, the club's focus for next summer will be on two key positions: right-back and central midfield. Efforts will be focused on strengthening these areas, even at the expense of other potential operations. For example, the pursuit of Alphonso Davies for the left back position has no longer been given priority.
Fran García (25) and Mendy (29), who recently extended his contract, offer solid options for the role. Nevertheless, Madrid remain hopeful that Davies will honor the agreement to join the club once his contract with Bayern expires. However, Bayern are exerting significant pressure to extend his contract, and should that happen it would be a manageable setback for Madrid.
Madrid identifies two key positions
The right back position already has a notable target: Liverpool player Trent Alexander-Arnold (26). The Englishman, a close friend of Bellingham, has expressed his desire to play for Real Madrid and has rejected all extension offers from Liverpool. If all goes according to plan, he will join Madrid next summer, where he will consolidate the position currently occupied by Lucas Vázquez (33), who is not a natural right back, and Carvajal, a seasoned veteran who is recovering from a serious knee injury.
Meanwhile, the midfield position creates more uncertainty. Madrid are looking for a player with excellent technical skills and the ability to organize the team's play – a role similar to that of Kroos in his prime. However, identifying such a player is proving to be a challenge.
Strong rumors from San Sebastián suggest that Martín Zubimendi (25) is a serious option. Vitinha (24) has also been mentioned. Although no clear favorite has emerged, the club is resolute in its commitment to strengthening the midfield, as is the case with the right-back position.
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