Real Madrid's Transfer Countdown: Which Missing Pieces Must Los Blancos Secure Before Window Slams Shut?
While the summer transfer window is approaching its conclusion, Real Madrid still has opportunities to complete additional deals.
Following a disappointing 2024–25 season without major silverware, Los Blancos entered the transfer market to strengthen their roster. Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Franco Mastantuono and Álvaro Carreras all joined the Spanish giants as Xabi Alonso builds his revamped Real Madrid squad.
All four new acquisitions appeared in the club's La Liga season opener, which resulted in a 1–0 triumph courtesy of Kylian Mbappé's converted penalty. While the match secured three crucial points, it highlighted certain concerns about Alonso's current roster that may need addressing before the transfer window shuts on Sept. 1.
Here are three key objectives Real Madrid should focus on before the rapidly approaching deadline.
Acquire a Midfield Reinforcement
Having secured a fresh defensive line and world-class attacking options, Real Madrid's focus remains on adding another midfielder. The club continues searching for a long-term replacement following the exits of Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić, while Alonso gradually develops Arda Güler for their role.
However, transforming the Turkish talent into his new role may require time Real Madrid cannot afford. Additionally, injury-plagued Eduardo Camavinga and unsettled midfielder Dani Ceballos cannot be counted upon by Alonso. The most viable option might involve pursuing a deep-lying playmaker through the transfer market.
The Spanish powerhouse has been connected to several Premier League stars this summer, including Rodri, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernández. Securing any of these three from their respective clubs appears highly unlikely, particularly with the 2025–26 season already commenced.
Real Madrid might alternatively pursue Crystal Palace sensation Adam Wharton. The 21-year-old matches their desired profile and recently shone during the Eagles' FA Cup and Community Shield victories.
Los Blancos previously showed interest in Wharton, but appear undecided about whether the midfielder justifies his anticipated €98.4 million ($114.8 million) valuation.
Resolve the Rodrygo Situation
Even more urgent than acquiring another player is resolving the ongoing Rodrygo situation. The Brazilian has dominated transfer headlines throughout the summer after losing favor under Alonso.
The new manager selected Rodrygo for just one of Real Madrid's six FIFA Club World Cup fixtures and excluded him from the team's La Liga opener. The winger couldn't secure a starting position in Los Blancos' sole preseason match, appearing only as a 29-minute substitute against WSG Tirol. He did receive a start against Real Oviedo, however.
While Real Madrid and Rodrygo haven't publicly addressed the deteriorating circumstances, both sides likely feel frustrated with the current arrangement that serves neither the club nor the player. If Alonso won't utilize the 24-year-old, Los Blancos would prefer to capitalize on Rodrygo's value, potentially earning nearly €100 million ($116.6 million).
Rodrygo, meanwhile, prioritizes regular playing time. The Brazilian appears committed to remaining at football's most prestigious club, but if he cannot reclaim his spot in Real Madrid's starting eleven, he may face an unwilling departure from the Spanish capital.
Regardless, a definitive resolution should emerge before tensions escalate further.
Move On David Alaba, Ferland Mendy
After investing €178 million ($207.6 million) this summer, Real Madrid seeks to recoup funds before the transfer window concludes. David Alaba and Ferland Mendy represent the primary candidates for departure.
Recent reports suggest Los Blancos consider Mendy "reasonably surplus" following Carreras' arrival and Fran García's development. The club doesn't require three left-backs, particularly with Mendy reaching 30 and becoming increasingly injury-susceptible.
Alaba represents another player displaced by new signings. Huijsen has claimed Real Madrid's starting center-back role, while Éder Militão and Antonio Rüdiger compete to partner him defensively. The Austrian's persistent fitness issues and declining performances place him lowest on Alonso's depth chart, making him nearly as expendable as Mendy. Furthermore, Alaba commands an enormous €22.5 million ($26.1 million) annual salary.
Concluding an expensive summer by selling either or both players would represent significant success for Real Madrid, though neither appears willing to depart. Alaba's representatives reportedly informed Spanish publication AS: "He's staying."
The club would benefit tremendously from negotiating a deal to eliminate Alaba's substantial wages, considering the 33-year-old faces limited playing time this season.