Real Madrid are eyeing a trio of major signings as they aim to reinforce their squad ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, scheduled from June 15 to July 13, 2025. The urgency follows their recent 4-3 El Clásico defeat to Barcelona, which left them trailing in the La Liga title race by seven points with only three matches remaining.
The most high-profile target is Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold. At 26, the England international is set to join Los Blancos on a free transfer once his contract expires on June 30. However, Real Madrid are reportedly pushing for an early release, willing to pay a nominal fee to secure his services before the Club World Cup begins.
Madrid’s defense is in urgent need of reinforcements, especially at center-back. Dean Huijsen, currently at Bournemouth, has emerged as their top choice. The 20-year-old Spaniard is reportedly leaning towards a move to Madrid despite interest from Chelsea and Liverpool, though his €58 million price tag is a sticking point.
In an effort to reduce costs, Madrid are exploring options like including players in a swap deal. While other alternatives such as Ibrahima Konaté and William Saliba remain on the radar, their high valuations could deter immediate action unless negotiations for Huijsen fall through.
On the left side of defense, Ajax youngster Jorrel Hato is a prominent target. At just 19, Hato is seen as a potential long-term replacement for the injury-prone David Alaba. Despite his promise, Ajax’s €30 million asking price and his contract until 2028 complicate the deal, with Chelsea currently ahead in the race.
As a fallback, Real Madrid are considering Álvaro Carreras of Benfica. The 22-year-old left-back is a less expensive alternative, though talks with his club remain in early stages due to Madrid’s financial caution and prioritization of other positions.
These transfer plans are part of a broader strategy to prepare for the Club World Cup and the anticipated arrival of Xabi Alonso as head coach. Alonso is expected to implement a 3-4-2-1 system, requiring tactical and personnel adjustments. In the meantime, Carlo Ancelotti is set to depart for the Brazil national team, with Santiago Solari likely stepping in on an interim basis.
Additionally, Real Madrid plan to extend the contracts of veterans Luka Modric and Lucas Vázquez through the tournament. With player contracts typically expiring on June 30, these short-term deals are necessary to ensure squad stability during the mid-June competition schedule.
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