Real Madrid has turned down a formal offer from Borussia Dortmund for young defender Diego Aguado, a product of La Fábrica, after head coach Xabi Alonso labeled him a key part of the club’s long-term future. The 18-year-old has impressed internally, and the club has made it clear he is not for sale.

What offers did Real Madrid reject?

According to reports from Marca and Football España, Borussia Dortmund submitted a bid close to €6 million for Aguado, who was also being monitored by clubs such as Parma. However, Real Madrid quickly declined to enter negotiations, firmly believing the defender should continue his development within the club’s system.

Why is Aguado so important to Xabi Alonso?

Since his appointment, Xabi Alonso has prioritized the integration of homegrown talent. Aguado was already part of the squad that traveled to the Club World Cup in the U.S., and the coach sees him as a versatile defender—able to play both as a center-back and left-back—with the potential to become a mainstay through 2029.

What is Aguado’s path at Real Madrid?

Diego Aguado joined the club in 2017, rising through the youth ranks to make his official debut in the Copa del Rey in January 2024. He later signed a long-term deal until June 2029 and became a regular with Real Madrid Castilla under Álvaro Arbeloa, who praised him as “a player perfectly aligned with the club’s philosophy.”

When will Real Madrid start their 2025–26 LaLiga campaign?

Real Madrid is scheduled to open the LaLiga 2025–26 season on Tuesday, August 19, at the Santiago Bernabéu against Osasuna. Despite a formal request to delay the match due to a tight schedule following the FIFA Club World Cup, LaLiga has denied any postponement.