Real Madrid has established itself as a formidable player in the market for athletes approaching the end of their contracts.
Recently, Los Blancos have successfully acquired high-profile players such as David Alaba, Antonio Rudiger, Kylian Mbappe, and Trent Alexander-Arnold when their contracts with previous clubs expired.
The club plans to employ this strategy again next summer as they aim to reinforce a crucial position.
A New Centre-Back Needed at No Cost
According to MARCA, Real Madrid has prioritized signing a new centre-back in the summer of 2026 without incurring any transfer costs.
The team is experiencing some uncertainty in the centre-back position. Dean Huijsen and Eder Militao have established a solid partnership, with Raul Asencio providing backup.
Although Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba are additional options, both will have their contracts expire on June 30, 2026, and their recent injury issues make contract renewal improbable.
Real Madrid’s strategy is to secure a new centre-back this summer at no cost.
Potential signings being considered at Valdebebas include Ibrahima Konate, Dayot Upamecano, and Marc Guehi—each approaching the end of their contracts and only requiring a modest signing-on fee.
Additionally, promoting Joan Martinez from the academy is also a viable option being explored.
Konate Leads the Race
The report indicates that Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool is at the forefront of Real Madrid’s interest.
The French international has been on the club’s radar for some time, and given his hesitance to renew at Anfield, many speculate that a move to Real Madrid is likely.
Dayot Upamecano, also in a similar contract situation at Bayern Munich, has been offered to the Spanish side.
However, he is not currently seen as a top priority by the Merengues, even though recent scouting reports highlight improvements in his play.
Most recently, Marc Guehi has joined the list, with his transfer to Liverpool thwarted at the last minute during the previous summer window.
The 25-year-old defender’s contract with Crystal Palace will expire in eight months, but he is not regarded as a primary target.