The three centre-backs that Florentino Pérez wants to unite for 2026: Rüdiger out!

With just a few weeks remaining before the summer transfer window opens, Florentino Pérez and Real Madrid are actively engaged in the transfer market. According to Diario AS, the Madrid leadership is targeting a trio of specific central defenders for the upcoming season.

Unlike past transfer windows, Real Madrid no longer has any urgency on the offensive side. With the arrival of Kylian Mbappé and the young Endrick, who join Rodrygo Goes, Vinicius Junior, and Brahim Diaz, the Madrid attack is sufficiently formidable to face any defense. To strengthen and truly impact all fronts in the coming seasons, the Madrid team needs to reinforce its midfield and especially its defense. Speaking of the defense, which has been a crucial area lacking this season, Florentino Pérez already has a plan.

The trio of central defenders targeted for 2026.

In addition to the almost completed arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold as a right-back, Real Madrid wants to part ways with older players in central defense. With their contracts expiring in a year, Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba no longer fit into the club’s future project. Thus, to ensure their departure, the management intends to recruit Dean Huijsen (19 years old), a highly sought-after young Spanish international in the European market in recent weeks.

With Éder Militão (26 years old), who has a long contract (until June 2028), and Raúl Asencio (22 years old), who has been a revelation for Madrid this season, Florentino Pérez believes he will have provided the technical staff with the essentials in central defense. Just after the March FIFA international break, Iberian media outlets unanimously report that Huijsen (1m95), who plays for Bournemouth and has a release clause of 50 million euros, will most likely be signed by Florentino Pérez this summer. Despite competition from other major European clubs, Real Madrid is reportedly the young player’s priority.

If this signing materializes, the Madrid team would have two talented young central defenders with some experience, added to the Brazilian Éder Militão. Despite his second major injury in two years (cruciate ligament rupture), Militão remains part of the club’s plans due to his young age.

Towards a departure for Rüdiger and Alaba this summer?

Returning to competition in January, David Alaba (33 years old) is unlikely to receive a contract extension in Madrid. If he wishes to see out his contract until June 2026, he will have to settle for a secondary role. If he prefers to enjoy the few years remaining in his professional career, the Austrian defender will have to seek a new club this summer. For Rüdiger, who is also 33 years old, Real Madrid will not force his departure. A true stalwart of the Madrid defense for two seasons, the German rock remains valuable despite some signs of fatigue.

However, with the arrival of Huijsen and a strong return from Éder Militão, he could play less frequently. For now, the German can cross his fingers and apply for a one-year extension, but he will have to accept a more secondary role. In any case, with a dense schedule and the risk of injuries, it would not be surprising to see the former Chelsea player extend his contract if he agrees to let the young players take the lead roles.

It should be noted that Real Madrid’s plan for several months has been to focus on young players. In the upcoming transfer window, the club will remain attentive and ready to pounce on young profiles coveted in Europe. Knowing that Florentino Pérez will want to streamline his squad to make room for young players, the departure of other veterans like Lucas Vázquez should be expected. Dani Carvajal will most likely finish his remaining year of contract (June 2026) before definitively giving his place to Alexander-Arnold. If Zubimendi or another midfielder signs, Luka Modric could also leave this summer, as his contract is expiring.

Florentino Pérez’s strategy is clear: rejuvenate the squad and build a competitive team for the years to come. The arrival of young talents like Huijsen and Asencio fits into this logic.

Real Madrid, with its history and prestige, always attracts the best players in the world. The prospect of playing for the Madrid club is a dream for many young talents.

The competition for promising young players is fierce. Major European clubs are all on the lookout for emerging gems.

Real Madrid, with its scouting network and power of attraction, has a definite advantage in this race for talent.

Florentino Pérez’s decision to focus on young players is a long-term strategy. It is about building a solid and competitive team for the years to come.

Real Madrid fans are eager to see the young talents flourish in the white jersey. They hope these players will become the stars of tomorrow.

Real Madrid, with its history and ambition, is always seeking excellence. The young players who join the club will have the opportunity to grow and develop in a stimulating environment.

The end of the season promises to be filled with emotions for Real Madrid. Fans hope the team can achieve its goals and win titles.