Real Madrid Eyes Right-Back and Midfield Reinforcements

Real Madrid has reportedly identified two key positions they intend to strengthen in their squad, as per a report from AS. The Spanish club is set to pursue signings that could fill these roles, although the exact names have been disclosed through anonymous sources. The focus on strengthening these areas comes at a critical juncture in the team’s development, with ongoing discussions surrounding potential acquisitions.

One of the positions that has garnered significant attention is the left-back spot. Throughout 2024, Alphonso Davies has been frequently linked with a move to the Spanish capital, with The Athletic suggesting that Real Madrid President Florentino Perez had a verbal agreement in place with the Canadian international. However, recent developments have complicated the situation. Despite these initial links, reports have emerged indicating that Davies is in talks with Bayern Munich over a potential contract renewal, which could further dampen Real Madrid’s hopes of securing his services.

Moreover, Real Madrid doesn’t face an urgent need to reinforce the left-back position. With Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia already on the roster, Madrid has a capable pair of options to fill the role. Mendy, despite facing some injury setbacks in recent seasons, has shown his value as a solid defensive option. Meanwhile, Fran Garcia, returning to the club in the summer, is a versatile player who can offer depth and quality in the position.

While the left-back situation may not require immediate action, the right-back spot presents a more pressing concern for Madrid. Dani Carvajal, long a stalwart of the club’s defense, is now in his early 30s, and his physical condition is beginning to show signs of age. Alongside him, Lucas Vazquez has been filling in, but the Spaniard is not a natural right-back and is also reaching the tail end of his career. These factors make it evident that a more reliable and dynamic right-back is needed to support the team’s defensive efforts.

Another issue arises with Carvajal’s long-term fitness. After suffering an ACL injury at the beginning of the 2024/2025 season, the club is uncertain about how he will return. This injury has left Carlo Ancelotti short of options in defense, further highlighting the need for a strategic signing in the right-back position. Given these concerns, a player like Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool has emerged as a top target. The England international, who will be a free agent after June 30, 2025, is a natural fit for Madrid’s needs. His attacking prowess, technical ability, and experience at the highest level make him an ideal addition.

Alexander-Arnold’s potential move to Madrid is not just about his footballing qualities but also his personal connections within the team. The right-back is a close friend of Jude Bellingham, who has already established himself as a key player for Los Blancos. This connection could help facilitate the move, especially if Alexander-Arnold’s future at Liverpool becomes uncertain. The Reds, currently in a strong position in the Premier League, with a four-point lead over second-place Chelsea and a game in hand, could yet claim the title this season. Should Liverpool secure a Premier League trophy, it could mark a fitting end to Alexander-Arnold’s time at Anfield, making him more open to a new challenge at the Bernabeu.

While strengthening the defense is a priority for Madrid, the midfield also remains an area that needs bolstering. The club has struggled to replace the legendary Toni Kroos, who retired following a triumphant 2023/2024 season that saw Real Madrid win their 15th Champions League title. Kroos was a player who defined an era at the club, with his exceptional vision, passing ability, and control over the tempo of matches. His absence has left a noticeable gap in the midfield, with Madrid lacking a player capable of dictating play in the same way Kroos once did.

According to AS, Madrid is looking for a player with similar attributes to Kroos: someone who can organize the team’s play and keep possession flowing smoothly. One potential candidate who fits this mold is Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad. The Spanish midfielder has been in impressive form for his club and national team, and his performance in the Euro 2024 final against England was particularly notable. Zubimendi was called upon to replace an injured Rodri, a Ballon d’Or candidate, and played a crucial role in Spain’s eventual 2-1 victory. His ability to break up play, distribute the ball effectively, and provide a solid defensive presence in the middle of the park makes him an appealing target for Madrid.

Zubimendi’s tactical awareness and technical skills are well-suited to Madrid’s style of play. While not an exact replacement for Kroos, he offers a balance of defensive solidity and passing ability that could help fill the void left by the German maestro. However, Madrid is also reportedly considering other options, including PSG’s Vitinha, who could provide a similar skill set.

Ultimately, though, AS suggests that Madrid’s priority should be to address the right-back position first before moving forward with midfield acquisitions. The situation with Carvajal’s fitness and the need for more depth in defense means that securing a high-quality right-back like Alexander-Arnold could become the club’s main focus. Once that gap is addressed, Madrid can then turn their attention to finding the ideal player to complement their midfield and continue their dominance in both La Liga and European competition.