Konaté and Joan: Real Madrid’s priority signings for summer 2026

Real Madrid is already laying the foundation for its next-generation defense, targeting the 2026–27 season as the launch point for a revamped back line that could define the club’s future. With the flanks secured—Trent Alexander-Arnold and Carreras signed through 2031—the focus now shifts to the heart of the defense.

Two Madrid center-backs to leave in 2026

Madrid is preparing for the expected departures of Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba when their contracts expire on June 30, 2026. Their replacements? Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté and academy product Joan Martínez. Both would arrive on free transfers, aligning with the club’s long-standing goal: build smart, spend less.

Konaté, 26, brings a proven track record and physicality reminiscent of Rüdiger, while Martínez, just 18, represents the future—an emerging talent shaped by Madrid’s youth system. The club sees this as the perfect counterbalance to this summer’s $122 million outlay for Carreras, Huijsen, and Trent.

Madrid’s fifth center-back slot is earmarked for Asencio, another homegrown player. The club’s vision is clear: blend elite signings with internal development to create a sustainable, world-class defense.

Still, questions remain. Konaté’s situation is unresolved, and Liverpool won’t let go easily—he’s a permanent fixture in Arne Slot’s starting XI. Madrid faced similar hurdles with Trent, but Konaté has shown signs of interest. During the international break, he joked in a Téléfoot interview, “Mbappé calls me every two hours!” hinting at his openness to a move.

Meanwhile, Rüdiger’s form has dipped, especially compared to Éder Militão. His struggles with the German national team—where he was blamed for two goals in a loss to Slovakia—have only reinforced Madrid’s decision not to renew.

Joan Martínez: a rising star

Martínez’s development is being closely monitored after missing all of last season due to an ACL tear. He returned to action with a full 90-minute debut against Lugo for Castilla, and coach Álvaro Arbeloa has been gradually increasing his minutes during preseason.

Though not listed in Madrid’s Champions League A squad, Martínez is registered on List B, reserved for academy players. He’s expected to make his first-team impact in the Copa del Rey, following the path of Jacobo Ramón and Diego Aguado last season.

Xabi Alonso is keeping him close, and while Alaba is ramping up his intensity, Joan is already considered the fifth center-back in practical terms. His breakthrough seems inevitable—it’s just a matter of time.

Bottom line for US fans

Real Madrid’s strategy blends fiscal discipline with elite talent acquisition, a model familiar to American sports franchises. With Konaté and Martínez, the club isn’t just planning for the next season—it’s designing a legacy.

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