Real Madrid is once again proving that its dominance extends beyond the pitch and into the boardroom. The Spanish giants, experts in signing top talent for free, are already working on their next masterstroke: strengthening their defense with an elite center-back without paying a single dollar. Following the successful signings of David Alaba, Antonio Rüdiger, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, the Madrid hierarchy plans to replicate the formula that has served them so well.

Konaté tops the list of targets for 2026

In Valdebebas, the plan for the 2026 season is already taking shape, and the standout name on the list is Ibrahima Konaté, currently with Liverpool. The 26-year-old Frenchman has yet to renew his contract with the English club, setting off alarm bells at Anfield and immediately drawing Madrid’s interest. In England, reports suggest the defender may already have a verbal agreement with Los Blancos, who see him as the ideal successor to Rüdiger or Alaba, both of whom have contracts expiring in June.

The defensive situation at the Bernabéu is causing some concern. With Éder Militão and young Dean Huijsen as starters, the lack of depth at the back could become a problem. That’s why Florentino Pérez and his sporting directors are studying the free-agent market carefully to secure reinforcements without financial strain.

Upamecano and Guéhi on Madrid’s radar

While Konaté remains the top priority, Real Madrid isn’t ruling out other options. One name back on the radar is Dayot Upamecano, the Bayern Munich center-back. The Frenchman’s contract also expires soon, and he’s been offered to Madrid. Though not the first choice, scouting reports reaching the club highlight his recent development and growing maturity.

From the Premier League, another alternative emerges in Marc Guéhi, defender for Crystal Palace. The Ivorian international came close to joining Liverpool last summer, but bureaucratic hurdles halted the move. Now, with only eight months left on his deal, his future is uncertain again—and Real Madrid could take advantage of the situation.

Meanwhile, the club continues to monitor Joan Martínez, a homegrown center-back who recently recovered from a serious ACL injury. In Valdebebas, he’s regarded as “the defender of the future,” and Álvaro Arbeloa has been tasked with overseeing his development.

True to its style, Real Madrid doesn’t need massive spending to build a competitive squad. Its strategy remains simple yet effective: patience, intelligence, and the unmatched ability to lure the world’s best players with the power of its history. On the market, as on the pitch, Los Blancos always play to win.