When this summer is over, the Real Madrid squad will look fundamentally different from a few weeks ago. New manager Xabi Alonso feels that he does not get “his way every time”, but has some influence.
Real Madrid are in the midst of a squad redefinition, with strong rumours of five potentially big departures in this transfer window: David Alaba, Ferland Mendy, Rodrygo Goes, Endrick and Dani Ceballos. Under the leadership of Xabi Alonso, and with confirmed signings such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Franco Mastantuono and Dean Huijsen, the club is working to create space for new reinforcements and ensure a younger, more dynamic and competitive squad.
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The situation surrounding Mendy is one of the most clear. The club has set a price of around 10 million euros for him. Fran García’s impressive performances at the Club World Cup have pushed the Frenchman down the hierarchy, and interest in Benfica’s Álvaro Carreras – whose signing could cost around £50m – is hastening his departure. At the same time, David Alaba, whose return from injury is still uncertain, could also disappear if a good offer comes.
Real Madrid prepares for a major upheaval in the squad
In midfield, Dani Ceballos’ situation has taken a drastic turn. Once invaluable for his creative play, he has now lost his place to younger players like Arda Güler. The Andalusian has become redundant, and the club is open to a departure if a good opportunity arises on the market.
Further down the pitch, the situation is even more dynamic. Rodrygo Goes has attracted interest from three Premier League giants: Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool. Although he is still important to the squad, his role has diminished after Mbappé’s arrival and Arda Güler’s development. The three English clubs are preparing lucrative offers, and Real Madrid are willing to negotiate if the price is right.
On the other hand, Endrick could be sent out on loan. Sporting Lisbon have offered to cover his salary and offer a preferred path for Ousmane Diomandé or Gonçalo Inácio. Although the young Brazilian would prefer to stay, Real Madrid does not rule out a strategic loan to speed up his adaptation to European football.
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