Real Madrid officials have already begun planning for the 2026 summer transfer window. It remains unlikely that there will be any changes to the basic plan of not signing any new players in the winter transfer window, even though coach Xabi Alonso wants to strengthen the squad.
The newspaper Marca revealed that Real Madrid has practically finalized its first signing for the summer of 2026, bringing back midfielder Nico Paz from Como by activating his buy-back clause, which is valued at €9 million.
At the same time, Real Madrid’s management has decided against making any attacking signings next summer and will focus its efforts on strengthening two specific positions: center-back and midfield.
Besides Paz, Real Madrid hopes to sign a new maestro to fill the void left by Toni Kroos’ retirement two years ago. They have their sights specifically set on two names: Adam Wharton and Kees Smith, especially since these players align with the club’s philosophy of signing young players who have already proven their abilities at a high level.
As for the center-back position, Nico Schlotterbeek is the primary target to bolster Alonso’s defense. Other options being considered include Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace) and Jérémy Jéquet (Rennes). The club is highly unlikely to pursue Ibrahima Konaté or Dayot Upamecano, despite their availability on free transfers.
There is a belief within Florentino Pérez’s administration that the team needs significant reinforcements, and next summer will be a major one for Real Madrid. On the attacking front, reinforcements will only be necessary if Vinicius Junior or Rodrygo leave; otherwise, the current squad will remain unchanged.
