In addition to Yan Diomande and Rodri, Real Madrid has not ruled out the possibility of signing another central defender. While Ibrahima Konate has joined the team as a free agent, head coach Jose Mourinho is keen on adding further depth ahead of the upcoming 2026-27 season.
Earlier in the transfer window, Nico Schlotterbeck was Real Madrid’s top target. However, after he sustained an ankle injury while representing Germany at the 2026 World Cup, club officials shifted their focus to Alessandro Bastoni. Mourinho is a strong admirer of the Inter Milan and Italy standout, who may soon transfer to the Bernabeu.
According to MD, Inter has reached an agreement to sign former Manchester City defender John Stones. This move could potentially pave the way for Bastoni’s transfer to Real Madrid later this summer, should the club decide to make an approach.
Real Madrid must offload a player before pursuing Bastoni
Real Madrid is interested in Bastoni but has made it clear that no new defender can be signed until a current player departs. Mourinho has already communicated to Raul Asencio that he is not part of his plans for the upcoming season, making him the likely candidate to leave, thus creating space for Bastoni’s arrival at the Bernabeu.
While Asencio has generated some interest, there are currently no indications from him that he intends to depart. This could pose challenges for Real Madrid as they attempt to secure Bastoni, which would be a source of frustration for Mourinho as he aims to assemble the ideal squad for his second tenure as manager. For now, the developments regarding both defenders will be closely monitored.