Real Madrid Transfer DealSheet: What to expect in 2025
Real Madrid is set to enhance its squad by targeting several key positions in the 2025 transfer windows. Despite being second in La Liga and facing difficulties in the Champions League, the club remains an illustrious destination for top players.
The team is prioritizing the acquisition of a centre-back and right-back, having initiated talks for the upcoming summer. Dani Carvajal’s knee injury in October accelerated the search for a right-back. Should David Alaba’s recovery from injury falter, further changes could involve signing another centre-back. Simultaneously, the progress of academy prospects like Joan Martinez, despite his injury, Castilla’s Jacobo Ramon, and Raul Asencio is under observation.
While left-back is not a pressing need, opportunities in the market are being explored. Trent Alexander-Arnold is a priority target for the right-back position, available for a pre-contract in January as his Liverpool contract ends in June. Alternatives include Tottenham’s Pedro Porro, Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, and Sevilla’s Juanlu.
Aymeric Laporte interests coach Carlo Ancelotti for central defense, though acquiring him poses financial challenges. Younger talents like Vitor Reis and Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba are also being considered, with Premier League teams leading the pursuit. Former academy player Rafa Marin, struggling for playtime at Napoli, offers an affordable buy-back option for Madrid.
On the left, Alphonso Davies and Miguel Gutierrez have emerged as candidates. A verbal agreement exists with Davies for a potential move, though competition is fierce. Gutierrez, shining at Girona, has a buy-back clause far lower than his market value.
Midfielder Florian Wirtz, although admired, may be out of reach due to Bayer Leverkusen’s high valuation. The board isn’t compelled to sell players for financial reasons but remains open to fair offers, as seen with Dani Ceballos. Rodrygo has opted to stay, confident in his position despite rumors surrounding new arrivals.
Potential departures might include Jesus Vallejo, who lags in the defensive lineup, and Fran Garcia should a new left-back join.
Strategic decisions are primarily managed through collaboration among top executives and scouting reports. Major signings and financial decisions are ratified at the highest level, with input from the head coach being considered but not decisive. Carlo Ancelotti desires at least a centre-back and a right-back, reflecting past shortcomings in bolstering the defense after injuries to key players.