According to Fichajes, Real Madrid are preparing a significant rebuild of their defence in the summer of 2026.
The outlet mentions that the club is set to allow Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba to leave as free agents, while Raul Asencio could also depart after failing to fit into Xabi Alonso’s system during the early part of the season.
With these departures, Real Madrid plan to bring in two new centre-backs whose contracts are nearing expiration, namely, Dayot Upamecano and Ibrahima Konate.
The French duo would strengthen the squad without requiring any transfer fees, as their contracts with respective clubs expire at the end of the season.
Interestingly enough, competition for these signings is expected, with other clubs ready to offer extensions to keep them.
It is said that the goal of this defensive overhaul is to create a strong rotation system around Dean Huijsen, Eder Militao, Upamecano, and Konate.
This structure would allow Alonso to choose between a traditional back four or a three-man defence with deeper support, giving flexibility depending on the opponent.
The departures of Rudiger and Alaba will mark a shift in hierarchy, but the club believes their profiles no longer align with the tactical direction Alonso is pursuing.
Similarly, Asencio has not met the physical and tactical demands required for Madrid’s defensive strategy.
By integrating the new signings, Real Madrid aim to refresh the backline, increase internal competition, and maintain solidity across multiple competitions.
Huijsen and Militao could rotate with the new signings, ensuring the team remains strong even in case of injuries, fatigue, or tactical adjustments.
Now, it remains to be seen if Real Madrid can succeed in their operations. This is because, given their targets’ contractual situation, competition will be extreme and intense from clubs like Liverpool and Bayern Munich.