Real Madrid are tracking these brainboxes across Europe

Martín Zubimendi remains Real Madrid’s top target to reinforce their midfield, in line with Xabi Alonso’s preferences. The midfielder knows Real Sociedad inside out and is seen as the ideal candidate for the role. However, Madrid are aware that Arsenal have been working on the deal for some time and currently have the upper hand.

While the transfer is not yet finalised, Madrid still have a chance to change the course—though if that proves impossible, they have other midfield options across Europe to consider.

Rodrigo (28 years old):

Before suffering a serious injury at the start of the season, Rodrigo was viewed as the perfect choice to strengthen the midfield. The current Ballon d’Or winner was a great fit, and according to AS, he is open to a return to Spain.

However, the cruciate ligament rupture he suffered in late September 2024 has cast doubt over his future. Nearly eight months post-surgery, he has yet to return to the pitch. He is expected to feature in the Club World Cup, which will offer Madrid a chance to assess his form.

Tijjani Reijnders (26):

The Dutchman made a strong impression during Milan’s visit to the Bernabéu in the Champions League this season, even scoring a goal.

He is a less prioritised option, but his effectiveness is proven, and he comes at a more reasonable cost. According to Transfermarkt, his market value is $50 million.

Enzo Fernández (24):

Named Best Young Player at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Enzo moved from Benfica to Chelsea in a deal exceeding $120 million.

While his form has been inconsistent at the London club, this season he has clocked over 3,000 minutes, scored seven goals, and provided 13 assists. However, Chelsea’s instability has hindered his development, and his price tag remains prohibitive.

Alexis Mac Allister (26):

Reports from Argentina have repeatedly linked the other starting midfielder from Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad to Real Madrid.

Though interest has never materialised into concrete negotiations, his performances at Premier League champions Liverpool have kept him on Madrid’s radar. Like Enzo, his transfer fee would likely be very high.

Bruno Guimarães (27):

The heartbeat of a resurgent Newcastle side that returned to the Champions League this season, Guimarães has proven himself in Europe following spells at Lyon and Newcastle.

This season alone, he has played nearly 3,700 minutes, scoring six goals and providing eight assists. The challenge lies in the price: he is valued at just over $80 million, under contract until 2028, and Newcastle’s Saudi ownership adds another layer of complexity.

Éderson (25):

AS USA reported in January that the Brazilian was Madrid’s main backup plan should the Zubimendi pursuit fall through. Once it became clear that Toni Kroos’s departure would leave a significant gap, the club began reaching out.

Like Reijnders, Éderson represents a more affordable and less glamorous option—valued at $50 million on Transfermarkt—but he’s been a consistently high performer in Gasperini’s attacking Atalanta side over the past three seasons.

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