Real Madrid have identified three clear transfer favourites for the right-back spot

The favourite has been identified, but alternatives remain in the mix. Real Madrid are actively searching for a right-back, and scouting is underway.

Alexander-Arnold, Pedro Porro, and Frimpong are all on the radar.

While this need was recognised before Carvajal’s series of injuries, it has become even more urgent since. Carvajal’s contract renewal until 2026 doesn’t alter the strategy, and there’s no rush—Madrid prefer to work carefully behind the scenes.

Will Real Madrid sign a right-back in January?

However, the need has intensified, driven by Carvajal’s recurring physical issues. Madrid are avoiding the idea of a “quick fix” and are maintaining trust in Lucas Vázquez. The focus, therefore, is on the summer transfer window, not January, which is typically less appealing to the club.

Summer is when real opportunities emerge, as disrupting a top team mid-season makes any major signing challenging. Madrid’s priority is clear: securing a right-back who offers both immediate impact and long-term potential.

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Who will Real Madrid sign as their new right-back?

Alexander-Arnold is the frontrunner, offering the complete package: talented, reliable, and cost-effective. Despite being only 26, he has played 322 games for Liverpool, becoming essential to their return to the elite. He reached the pinnacle with the 2019 Champions League victory and is beloved by Liverpool fans as a hometown hero, joining their academy at age six and remaining loyal ever since. His contract, however, expires on June 30, and renewal talks have stalled—keeping Madrid in the picture.

Both Alexander-Arnold and his agent are aware of Madrid’s interest. The idea excites him, and while he’s kept his intentions private, there’s growing pessimism in England about his renewal. Madrid have positioned themselves to act if other clubs enter the race or a final decision is made, ensuring they stay informed and ready. Bellingham, a close friend of Alexander-Arnold who even went on holiday with him in Los Angeles this past summer, has also vouched for his character. The goal is to secure him as a free agent in the summer, with his value said to be around the $70 million mark.

If Alexander-Arnold decides to stay at Liverpool, Madrid have alternatives lined up, starting with Pedro Porro. As reported by AS, the LaLiga club have been monitoring Porro since his time at Sporting Portugal, before his move to Tottenham. His strong performances with Spurs, which have even made him a viable candidate for Spain’s national team, have only increased interest.

A year younger than Alexander-Arnold (25), Porro has cemented his place in London and evolved from a promising talent to a proven player—exactly what Madrid need. With Carvajal turning 33 and Lucas Vázquez set to turn 34 in July, Los Blancos are looking for a player who can deliver both now and in the future. Porro would also help with Madrid’s Spanish quota, which has become a growing concern. However, with a contract until 2028 and a transfer fee of €45 million, prying him away from Tottenham would be neither easy nor cheap.

Then there’s Frimpong, a dynamic full-back with attacking instincts (12 goals and 14 assists last season; one goal and six assists this season) who has thrived at Leverkusen. At 23, soon to be 24, his potential and close working relationship with coach Xabi Alonso make him an appealing option. Like Wirtz, another talent Madrid are tracking, Frimpong’s adjustment could be smoother under Alonso’s guidance.

While his defensive abilities are a known area for improvement, the Dutchman’s value has skyrocketed to €50 million with a contract through 2028. If Madrid decide to pursue him, a negotiation will be necessary, though the clubs share a positive relationship, as Dani Carvajal spent a year out on loan at the German club before coming back to Madrid and winning it all.