Real Madrid have opted for a quiet January, but reports from Spain suggest a massive shake-up is coming to the Santiago Bernabéu this summer, with high-profile exits and defensive reinforcements on the agenda.
The Summer Clear-out: Alaba and Rüdiger on the Move?
According to journalist José Félix Díaz (via AS), Real Madrid’s board is already planning for a busy June. The defensive sector is the primary concern, and some heavyweights could be heading for the exit door:
- David Alaba: Reportedly “out of the club’s plans” for the 2026/27 season as the board looks for younger alternatives.
- Antonio Rüdiger: Rumours are intensifying regarding a sensational return to Chelsea, with the London club reportedly keen to bring the German back to Stamford Bridge.
Midfield & Defensive Shortlist
Despite links to Marc Guéhi, Dayot Upamecano, and Ibrahima Konaté, the New York Times reports that Real Madrid decided against a winter move to focus on their primary summer targets.
The midfield is also set for a refresh. The club is closely monitoring:
- Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace): Seen as a top technical prospect.
- Enzo Fernández (Chelsea): A long-standing target for Florentino Pérez.
- Neil El Aynaoui (Roma): Emerging as a dark horse in the Merengue recruitment meetings.
Four Months for Arbeloa
The future of the manager’s seat is also under a microscope. While Álvaro Arbeloa currently retains the board’s confidence, he has been given a “four-month trial” to prove he can lead the team long-term.
With Unai Emery recently dodging questions about the Madrid job, the pressure is on Arbeloa to deliver results in the Champions League and La Liga before a final decision is made in June.
Real Madrid Strategic Planning: 2026 Summer Targets
| Sector | Primary Targets | Status |
| Defense | William Saliba, Castello Lukeba | Scouting Phase |
| Midfield | Adam Wharton, Enzo Fernández | Preliminary Inquiry |
| Coach | Arbeloa (Current), Unai Emery (Option) | Decision in June |
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
