Real Madrid usually have their plans for next summer finalized relatively early, especially when looking for top-level players. They have already identified their needs for next season.
Los Blancos feel they need to strengthen in two key positions: right back and central midfield, reports Diario AS. One to replace the retired Toni Kroos, a midfielder who can organize his game with two key emerging targets. Another to soften the blow of Dani Carvajal’s injury.
Real Madrid are in talks with Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold to join on a free transfer next summer and are optimistic that will happen. They are also in talks with Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies as a possible arrival, but there is less certainty over a deal for him. They are very interested in taking advantage of the possibility of signing him for free, but it will not be a disaster if he does not do so.
Perhaps the most surprising thing about their plans is that they do not prioritize the play of a center back. They feel that the emergence of Raúl Asencio and the return of David Alaba from injury should give them enough cover for next season. This is despite Eder Militao likely being out for much of 2025, although Aurelien Tchouameni is another option they are banking on to fill the role.
Carlo Ancelotti has suffered a lot from injuries this season and, after more than a year out, there is also nervousness about Alaba’s return. At 33, he could find it difficult to return to his best, while Ancelotti has relied on Tchouameni more than Asencio in defense for the most part.