José Mourinho could change Real Madrid’s transfer plans because of one player

As Real Madrid’s squad continues to take shape behind the scenes during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, José Mourinho is putting the finishing touches on his rebuilding project. The Portuguese coach still wants several key additions before the transfer window closes.

His top priorities remain signing another center back and a central midfielder, with Rúben Dias and Alessandro Bastoni among the leading defensive targets. In midfield, Mateus Fernandes and Enzo Fernández are also under consideration.

But Mourinho is thinking beyond those positions. He has also floated the idea of bringing in a traditional No. 9, a penalty box striker who could give Real Madrid a different option when games become difficult, much like Joselu did under Carlo Ancelotti.

Mourinho keeping Gonzalo as backup option

Adding a center forward is not an immediate priority, however. Because of that, Mourinho has put any potential departure for Gonzalo on hold while he evaluates the academy product during preseason.

Real Betis have shown interest in the young striker, but Mourinho wants to assess him before making any decisions. Keeping Gonzalo also provides insurance in case Madrid cannot land the type of experienced target man the coach believes the squad still lacks.

Although Gonzalo is more versatile than a classic center forward and is capable of playing on the wing, he also attacks space well inside the box and is strong in the air. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has already shown confidence in him.

Mourinho still wants a Joselu-type striker

Even so, the profile Mourinho has in mind is closer to the role Joselu filled during the 2023-24 season.

Despite spending much of the campaign as a reserve, Joselu scored 18 goals and added three assists, providing Real Madrid with a valuable alternative off the bench.

His defining moment came in the second leg of the Champions League semifinal against Bayern Munich, when he scored twice in nine minutes to send Madrid into the final, where the club eventually captured its record-extending 15th European Cup.

Endrick remains part of the plan

The possible arrival of a traditional striker would not change Mourinho’s plans for Endrick.

The Brazilian remains in the coach’s plans because he offers versatility, playing both through the middle and on the right wing.

Before Mourinho’s arrival, Real Madrid had already informed Endrick that he would return to the first-team squad after an impressive loan spell at Lyon. The player is also determined to establish himself at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Center back and midfield remain the top priorities

A new No. 9 would have a greater impact on Gonzalo’s role, but Mourinho intends to give the academy graduate a fair opportunity during the opening weeks of preseason.

The coach believes signing a striker is secondary compared to strengthening the defense and adding a dynamic, creative central midfielder.

That midfield addition remains the missing piece in Mourinho’s vision for Real Madrid, although completing that deal could require the club to sanction a significant sale before making another major signing.

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