Real Madrid are preparing to overhaul the squad, with David Alaba, Rodrygo, Fran Garcia, and Ferland Mendy potentially heading for the exit. The Spanish giants aim to spend nearly €200 million on new signings as per SPORT, but sell-on fees alone won’t cover these ambitious plans, forcing tough decisions on player departures.
Financial realities drive transfer strategy
Real Madrid’s summer blueprint involves significant investment paired with strategic sales. The club’s financial targets require more than just incoming transfer fees – they need to reduce the wage bill and create squad space for fresh talent.
This balancing act has placed several established players under scrutiny, particularly those competing for minutes in overcrowded positions.
David Alaba’s situation exemplifies these challenges. The Austrian defender, who arrived as a marquee free signing, now battles persistent injury problems while commanding one of the squad’s highest salaries. His defensive position has become congested following Dean Huijsen’s arrival, with Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, Raul Asencio, and Aurelien Tchouameni all vying for centre-back spots.
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Saudi Arabian clubs and Major League Soccer teams have expressed interest, offering Real Madrid an opportunity to offload his wages while securing a transfer fee. Though Alaba brings valuable experience and leadership qualities, his recurring fitness setbacks make his retention increasingly difficult to justify.
Left-back logjam creates selection headaches
Competition for the left-back position has intensified, leaving both Fran Garcia and Ferland Mendy facing uncertain futures. The potential signing of Alvaro Carreras adds another layer of complexity to an already crowded department.
Garcia, who has failed to cement himself as a dependable option, attracts attention from Bournemouth and several Italian clubs. Real Madrid values him between €15 and €20 million, viewing his sale as an ideal way to generate funds while trimming the squad.
Mendy’s contract runs through 2027, but his injury-plagued campaign and inconsistent performances have opened the door for a possible transfer. The Frenchman’s fitness concerns mirror those affecting other squad members, prompting the club to consider suitable offers that might arrive during the transfer window.
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Rodrygo’s ambitions clash with squad hierarchy
Perhaps the most intriguing situation involves Rodrygo, whose desire for a more prominent role conflicts with Real Madrid’s established pecking order. The Brazilian forward specifically wants to operate from the left wing, a position firmly occupied by Vinicius Junior.
Kylian Mbappé’s arrival has further complicated matters – the French superstar’s record-breaking debut season yielded 31 La Liga goals, earning him both the Golden Boot and Pichichi Trophy.
These stellar performances have pushed Rodrygo further down the attacking hierarchy, creating internal tensions over his role. Arsenal and Manchester City have monitored his situation closely, recognising an opportunity to acquire a player seeking greater responsibility. His future likely hinges on discussions with new manager Xabi Alonso and how the club’s broader transfer strategy unfolds.
Real Madrid’s approach remains clear: no player faces forced departure, but fierce competition for places will naturally limit opportunities. The club seeks squad rejuvenation, financial optimisation, and space for emerging talents.
