Real Madrid’s transfer priority: a brain

Real Madrid have decided not to enter the transfer market that opens in a matter of hours. Time will tell whether that intention holds, depending on what happens – or what emerges – during a January packed with games and the demands of as many as four different competitions. Either way, what is not in doubt is that scouting for next season is already underway, even if the club’s targets have not yet been fully defined. The direction of those targets could change; what will not is the focus on a defensive midfielder and a center back, both viewed as top priorities.

It is the midfield, in particular, that most worries club executives and the coaching staff. The team’s clarity in possession has yet to appear and, without looking back or dwelling on what other players once represented, the search for a true on-field organizer has already begun. Real Madrid’s strategy in the market remains clear: youthful talent – though they have not ruled out trying to secure a more established player. With Nico Paz’s return considered certain – or almost – the midfield picture next season is expected to look very different from this one.

Aside from Aurélien Tchouaméni, the rest of the midfielders have not lived up to expectations, prompting the club to make reinforcement in the middle of the pitch a priority. Among the younger options, the standout name is Dutch midfielder Kees Smit of AZ Alkmaar. Both club and player believe his time with the team he helped guide to Youth League glory has come to an end.

Approaching his 20th birthday, Smit already has 58 top-flight appearances, showing he can add tempo and bring out the best in those around him. There were doubts last summer about how he might handle the jump from the Dutch side to Real Madrid; his performances have eased them.

Several clubs are circling the midfielder’s camp. Real Madrid’s staff know him well, having watched him play a decisive role in their Youth League elimination in 2023–24. The work already done – and the tracking carried out by multiple clubs – is set to speed up his decision on the next step. England’s Wharton has also been offered for that position, but for now a move is not being considered.

As for the option of a ready-made player viewed as a genuine reference, the near-impossible signing of Vitinha has been raised. PSG know they will have to act this summer and, while French football has no release clauses, there are still understandings between club officials and players – as in the case of the Portuguese international.

At center back, a decision will depend on a close assessment of the current options, but as things stand the chances of Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba staying look relatively slim. Jacobo Ramón’s stock is rising after the outstanding season he is having at Como.

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