Despite already securing four signings this summer, Real Madrid are far from finished in the transfer market. The club is eyeing a crucial addition in defensive midfield, a position that proved problematic throughout last season and remains a concern ahead of Xabi Alonso’s first campaign as head coach.
⚪️ Midfield Depth: Quantity Over Consistency?
At present, Madrid can count on Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Dani Ceballos to operate at the base of midfield. However, all three endured patchy form in 2024-25, leading to internal concerns about their reliability in high-pressure matches. The club is now prioritizing a top-class defensive midfielder to add balance and consistency in the pivot.
🎯 Dream Target: Rodri Hernandez
According to reports from Diario AS, Madrid’s dream signing is none other than Rodri Hernandez, the Manchester City metronome widely regarded as one of the best holding midfielders in world football.
Having returned from a long-term ACL injury at the FIFA Club World Cup earlier this year, Rodri’s performances have been under close scrutiny from Madrid scouts. While no move is imminent, the plan is to monitor his progress throughout the 2025-26 Premier League campaign, with a potential approach in the summer of 2026—if he does not renew his contract with City.
Rodri’s current deal runs until 2027, and he would enter the final 12 months of that agreement next summer. That timeline could make him a strategic market opportunity for Los Blancos if contract talks with City stall.
🧩 Alternatives on the Radar
Madrid are not placing all their hopes on Rodri. The club is also tracking other high-calibre midfielders, including:
Nicolo Barella (Inter Milan)
Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea)
Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool)
However, all three would likely demand transfer fees north of €100 million, a figure the Spanish giants are reluctant to meet given recent outlays and long-term financial planning. Rodri, with only 12 months left on his contract by 2026, would be the more affordable and strategic option if he’s available.
🧠 Madrid’s Midfield Future: Evolution in Progress
Real Madrid’s engine room has long been anchored by legends such as Casemiro, Modrić, and Kroos. As that golden era fades, the club continues to rebuild and modernize its midfield. With Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde already thriving in advanced roles, Madrid’s focus is now on securing a world-class shield in front of the defence.
Whether it’s Rodri or a top alternative, Real Madrid appear determined to give Xabi Alonso the foundation he needs for success at the Santiago Bernabé.
