Real Madrid

Real Madrid draw up 7-man midfield shortlist but one issue could change everything

Big names and breakout prospects feature heavily, though Madrid’s reluctance to overspend may prove decisive in the summer market

Benoit Tessier

Daniel L. Peinado Roddy Cons

Update: Apr 2nd, 2026 09:59 EDT

The most decisive stretch of the season is still to come, with trophies on the line across Europe. But behind the scenes, planning for the summer transfer window is already underway. At Real Madrid, the roadmap is clear.

The club wants reinforcements in two key areas: central defense and midfield. Nico Paz is expected to be among the first arrivals, but he may not be the only addition as Madrid reshapes its roster.

Real Madrid’s measured approach in the market

Players, clubs, and agents are all aware that Madrid is targeting midfield upgrades, and the rumor mill hasn’t slowed. Still, the Spanish giants have no intention of overspending. The club is determined to avoid inflated deals and will not go beyond market value for a new midfielder.

Success on the field could also ease the urgency. Winning LaLiga or the Champions League would reduce the pressure to make a splash signing.

Inside the front office, no final decision has been made. Performances between now and the end of the season will heavily influence the outcome. The upcoming World Cup is another key factor, as Madrid has a long history of identifying breakout stars on that stage.

The profile they want is clear: a midfield orchestrator, a true brain at the center of the game.

Real Madrid draw up 7-man midfield shortlist but one issue could change everything

Top midfield targets under consideration for Real Madrid

Vitinha

The Portuguese star is among the most highly rated holding midfielders in the world right now, and Madrid is paying close attention. Relations with Paris Saint-Germain have improved in recent months, but any deal would depend on the player pushing for a move.

A transfer would not come cheap. The fee would likely exceed $110 million, though Madrid views that price as justified given his quality.

Rodri

Despite past comments suggesting he would be open to joining Madrid, the Spanish international is not currently a priority target. While highly respected within the club, concerns over his age, potential transfer cost, and form following a knee injury have pushed him down the list.

Enzo Fernández

Few players have been as vocal about their admiration for Madrid. The Argentine midfielder has made it clear he would welcome a move to the Bernabéu.

Madrid appreciates his talent, but not his price tag. Chelsea would likely demand more than $110 million, a figure well beyond what the club is willing to pay.

Kees Smit

Young, talented, and full of potential, Smit has drawn comparisons to elite midfielders like Pedri and Frenkie de Jong. Madrid continues to monitor his development closely.

The Dutch prospect has also expressed a desire to play for Madrid, though competition is fierce, with Barcelona and Manchester United also interested. His price, estimated around $65 million, makes him one of the more attainable options and a potential market opportunity.

Adam Wharton

The Crystal Palace midfielder is highly regarded at Madrid, and his willingness to leave England could help facilitate a deal. However, Premier League financial muscle remains a major obstacle.

Manchester United and other clubs could push offers toward $110 million, a level Madrid is unlikely to match. Any move would depend heavily on the player making it clear he prefers a switch to the Bernabéu.

Sandro Tonali

The Italian international has also been linked with Madrid, with his agent reportedly offering him to club president Florentino Pérez.

There are reservations, however. His recent suspension related to betting issues has raised concerns, and Newcastle is not expected to make negotiations easy.

Alexis Mac Allister

Another Argentine on Madrid’s radar, Mac Allister has long dreamed of playing at the Bernabéu. He is under contract with Liverpool through 2028, and there have been no concrete talks over an extension yet.

A move appears unlikely in the short term. However, if he delays renewing his deal, his price could drop into a range that fits Madrid’s spending limits.

With multiple high-profile names in the mix and no clear frontrunner, Real Madrid’s midfield rebuild remains wide open. The final decision may come down to timing, opportunity, and who best fits the club’s long-term vision.