The 3 center-backs that Real Madrid has in its sights for 2026

Apuesta a este partido aquí

La Liga

1 X 2

Real Madrid Barcelona

26/10/25 16:15:00

2.00 3.75 3.50

 PUBLICIDAD

Cuotas validas al publicarse, sujetas a cambios. Regístrese en bet365, ingrese 5€ o más en su cuenta y conseguirá un 100% de su ingreso válido en créditos de apuesta (hasta 100€). Ingrese 50€ o más y también recibirá 10 fichas doradas para utilizar en tragaperras seleccionadas. Solo para clientes nuevos. Se aplican las condiciones. Las ganancias no incluyen el importe de los créditos de apuesta. Ingreso mínimo de 50€ para las fichas doradas. Se aplican premios máximos, restricciones de juego, límites de tiempo y condiciones. Es necesario registrarse.

Real Madrid has already started planning its squad for the 2026-27 season. Florentino Pérez's agenda has a very clear priority: strengthening the defense with a top-class center-back.

The idea is to bring in a first-rate player without a transfer fee, taking advantage of the end of contracts of several targets.
Three names are on the list, but one of them is the clear favorite.

Ibrahima Konaté, the main target

The name that excites the Madrid hierarchy the most is Ibrahima Konaté. The Frenchman, currently playing for Liverpool, will end his contract in June 2026 and has not renewed yet. Real Madrid has been monitoring his progress for many months. They consider him a commanding center-back, quick in interceptions, and with great ball distribution.

The strategy of the white club is clear: persuade Konaté to not extend his contract with the 'Reds'. If successful, it will be the star signing for the center of the defense. In fact, in January 2026, they will try to reach a preliminary agreement to secure his arrival in the summer. It would be a market coup and a move very similar to the one for David Alaba in 2021.

Dayot Upamecano, the strong alternative

If Konaté does not arrive, the second option is Dayot Upamecano. The defender from Bayern Munich also ends his contract in the summer of 2026. This situation opens the door to a possible transfer without a fee. Real Madrid values his physical power, his ability to anticipate, and his experience in big games. The sports management has already had indirect contacts with his environment to understand his contractual situation. Upamecano, 26 years old by 2026, fits the desired profile: international, competitive, and with Champions League experience.

Marc Guehi, the surprising choice

The third option on the list is more unexpected: Marc Guehi. The Englishman, currently at Crystal Palace, also ends his contract in 2026. However, his situation is more complex.
Several Premier League clubs have shown interest in signing him this summer, which could accelerate his departure. Real Madrid has him on standby as a Plan C.
Guehi is a center-back with good aerial play, strength, and room for growth. But his signing would be more challenging if he moves to the English market before 2026. In that case, the white club would prioritize Konaté or Upamecano.

Real Madrid does not want to pay to sign a new center-back

The fact that the three candidates end their contracts in 2026 is crucial. Real Madrid is seeking a market opportunity to strengthen the defense without spending on transfers. This aligns with the club's recent policy of capitalizing on these situations to bring in top players. Recent examples are Alaba and Rüdiger, signed for free and making a significant impact. Moreover, the savings in the transfer cost would allow offering a competitive salary to convince the chosen player. Thus, the club would maintain its financial balance and capacity to pursue other reinforcements.

Need for a defensive leader

The search for a top-class center-back is not coincidental. In the current squad, Nacho and Rüdiger are already over thirty, and Militao is returning from a serious injury. The club aims to secure a generational replacement in defense and uphold the solidity that has characterized the team in recent years. A signing like this would be crucial to continue competing at the highest level in all competitions.

Operation timeline

The plan is clear: reach a preliminary agreement in January 2026 with one of the three targets. From there, await the summer to incorporate them without a transfer fee. This implies that the coming months will be decisive in defining the chosen one. Konaté is the favorite, but negotiations will determine the outcome.

The defense of the future

Whoever is chosen, Real Madrid wants a center-back who will leave a mark. A player capable of leading the defense and providing an immediate quality boost. The focus on Konaté, Upamecano, or Guehi shows that the club is not only seeking talent but also international experience. The Bernabéu aims to remain a stronghold, and for that, it needs a defense that lives up to its history.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 3 centrales que el Real Madrid tiene en su punto de mira para 2026