Xabi Alonso Breaks Silence: "We Have an Obligation" as Real Madrid Eyes January Transfer Moves
Xabi Alonso hasn't dismissed the possibility of Real Madrid pursuing new acquisitions during this month's active transfer period, stating that the club remains open to evaluating potential opportunities.
The Galácticos experienced a hectic summer transfer window that has produced mixed outcomes thus far, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Franco Mastantuono facing setbacks due to injury concerns. Álvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen have established themselves as regular starters, though the latter has also dealt with fitness issues.
Alonso's squad currently sits behind defending champions Barcelona in La Liga standings and has suffered defeats in two of their six Champions League fixtures, demonstrating areas that need enhancement. The coach maintains he is "satisfied" with his current roster but acknowledged that the club continuously monitors the market.
"We have a responsibility to remain vigilant about potential improvements when opportunities present themselves. However, we're content with our current squad," Alonso explained to the media regarding their transfer stance.
Real Madrid's January 2026 Transfer Targets
Despite worrying uncertainty surrounding Kylian Mbappé's recovery timeline from a knee injury—"We'll work to minimize his absence ... But regarding his return date? That remains unclear," Alonso expressed concern this week—the most pressing needs for Real Madrid lie in defensive positions.
Defensive resources have been strained throughout the campaign, with Éder Militão sidelined until April, while David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger are displaying signs of declining performance. Raúl Asencio has secured a regular first-team role, but additional center-back reinforcement would be invaluable.
Crystal Palace skipper Marc Guéhi represents the top choice, with his deal set to expire at season's end and his club potentially worried about losing him on a free transfer. Dayot Upamecano faces a comparable contract situation at Bayern Munich, while Sporting CP's Ousmane Diomande could offer a more affordable alternative for immediate reinforcement.
Following the departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić in consecutive summers, acquiring a creative midfielder represents another priority signing this month. Adam Wharton, also at Crystal Palace, stands as the premium option carrying a substantial price tag, with Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller emerging as an alternative prospect. Nico Paz continues to excel at Como and possesses a buyback provision, though questions remain about activating it before summer.