Alone against everyone. After his boycott of the Ballon d'Or, Florentino Pérez was dropped this week by Joan Laporta, his last ally for the European Superleague project. The president of FC Barcelona opened the door to a rapprochement with the EFC (former ECA) and with UEFA. The Spanish press added that he also wants to abandon the SL project but cannot announce it publicly since he risks financial sanctions. For his part, the boss of Real Madrid remains solid on his support for the moment, even if he is the last to believe in the Superleague. But on the other side of the Pyrenees, we especially think that he has lost his standoff with the governing body of European football. But this is not the only concern of the Merengues boss.
Indeed, Florentino Pérez, as well as his teams, are perfectly aware of the fact that Real Madrid are not solid in all areas of the game. Xabi Alonso had also requested an additional defender and midfielder this summer. But his requests were in vain. A few months later, its leaders are visibly ready to offer it at least one of the much-desired recruits. This Friday, Marca explains that Real Madrid aims to afford a defender at zero cost, in particular to replace David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger, who will not be extended. The Spanish club wants to continue its strategy and get its hands on an item at the end of the contract. Again, the name of Ibrahima Konaté is mentioned. The Frenchman will be free at the end of the season and is a priority.
Real Madrid want to replace Alaba and Rüdiger for free
He ticks all the boxes, he who is neither too young nor too old and who has solid experience and an excellent level. Everything that pleases Madrid recruiters. But he is not the only player targeted. Dayot Upamecano, in the same contractual situation at Bayern Munich, is also being monitored. He too will be available at zero cost if no agreement is reached with Bayern Munich regarding a contract extension. Despite recent statements from its leaders, who are very optimistic, a point of disagreement is still blocking it at the moment. Good news for Real Madrid, who can step into the breach.
The third name pulled out of the hat is that of Marc Guéhi. Close to Liverpool last summer, the Crystal Palace player is of great interest to the Merengues. Finally, an internal option is not completely excluded either even if it seems less solid. The name of the young Canterano Joan Martínez is mentioned. “The one who would cost nothing is none other than Joan Martínez, the central defender of the future, as we believe in Valdebebas. After recovering from his cruciate ligament injury suffered in August 2024, he is now in the hands of Arbeloa to continue his career”swung Marca. What is certain is that Real Madrid only targets players available for free. The trend is clear.
