Real Madrid’s winter transfer plan revealed

The strong form and, above all, the impressive results with which Real Madrid has closed out 2024 reaffirm the club’s decision not to make any signings in the winter transfer window, despite significant injuries to Carvajal and Militão and the delay in Alaba’s recovery.

Madrid remain competitive across all tournaments and hold a privileged position in LaLiga, with the lead within reach. Consequently, taking advantage of the January transfer window is not currently on the table.

However, preparations are already underway for next summer. Circumstances in football can change rapidly, and much of the club’s strategy will hinge on Alaba’s recovery during the latter part of the season when he is expected to return to the pitch.

The Austrian remains a crucial component of the team, but the emergence of youth player Asencio and Ancelotti’s adaptation of Tchouaméni to a central defensive role have bolstered the backline.

As a result, signing a centre-back is no longer a priority. Instead, the club’s focus for next summer will be on two key positions: right-back and central midfield. Efforts will be concentrated on strengthening these areas, even at the expense of other potential operations. For instance, the pursuit of Alphonso Davies for the left-back position has been de-prioritised.

Fran García (25) and Mendy (29), who recently extended his contract, provide solid options for the role. Nevertheless, Madrid remain hopeful that Davies will honour the agreement to join the club once his contract with Bayern expires. However, Bayern are exerting significant pressure to renew his deal, and should that happen, it would be a manageable setback for Madrid.

Madrid identify two key positions

The right-back position already has a standout target: Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold (26). The Englishman, a close friend of Bellingham, has expressed his desire to play for Real Madrid and has rejected all renewal offers from Liverpool. If all goes as planned, he will join Madrid next summer, solidifying a position currently occupied by Lucas Vázquez (33), who is not a natural right-back, and Carvajal, a seasoned veteran recovering from a serious knee injury at 32.

Meanwhile, the midfield position presents more uncertainty. Madrid seek a player with excellent technical skills and the ability to organise the team’s play—a role akin to that of Kroos in his prime. However, identifying such a player is proving challenging.

Strong rumours from San Sebastián suggest that Martín Zubimendi (25) is a serious option. Vitinha (24) has also been mentioned. While no clear favourite has emerged, the club is resolute in its commitment to strengthening the midfield, just as it is with the right-back position.

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