Real Madrid Targets New Defensive Signings as Xabi Alonso Prepares for Takeover
Sources close to the club confirm that the decision to strengthen the backline comes in response to a recent string of injuries that have left the team vulnerable defensively.
Real madrid new manager Xabi Alonso. Photo/Getty Images.
By Robert Assad
Real Madrid are set to make significant moves in the summer transfer market, with the club prioritizing the signing of a new centre-back to support incoming manager Xabi Alonso ahead of the 2025/26 season.
Sources close to the club confirm that the decision to strengthen the backline comes in response to a recent string of injuries that have left the team vulnerable defensively.
With the FIFA Club World Cup just a month away, the club hierarchy is eager to ensure squad depth and stability as the team prepares for a busy and high-stakes calendar.
Xabi Alonso, who will officially take over the managerial reins from Carlo Ancelotti this summer, is expected to play a key role in identifying and integrating the new defensive signing. The former Real Madrid midfielder is known for his tactical acumen and emphasis on structural discipline—qualities that the club hopes will blend seamlessly with the addition of fresh talent at the back.
In addition to a centre-back, Real Madrid are also actively exploring options at left-back, where fitness concerns and inconsistent performances have forced the club to rely heavily on makeshift solutions. With Ferland Mendy’s fitness a recurring issue and veteran Nacho Fernández set to depart, the left side of defense remains a critical area of concern.
“The plan is to strengthen before the Club World Cup. We are monitoring several defensive profiles,” a source within the club told Spanish media. “There’s a strong push from the sporting department to back Alonso with the tools he needs.”
Madrid’s recent defensive issues were highlighted during the latter part of the 2024/25 La Liga campaign, where the club struggled to keep clean sheets amid injuries to key defenders. The absence of depth was further exposed during their Champions League run, and club officials are determined not to repeat the same mistakes in the upcoming season.
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