Real Madrid are not expected to sign a new centre-back this summer, despite ongoing links to Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté. Los Blancos suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to PSG in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final, prompting criticism of defenders Antonio Rüdiger and Raul Asencio.
While Asencio recently signed a new deal and is seen as a long-term project, doubts are growing over Rüdiger’s consistency at the top level. However, the emergence of Dean Huijsen and the arrivals of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Álvaro Carreras are viewed as defensive reinforcements for the 2025/26 season. Although not a complete defensive overhaul, the trio are expected to start regularly. Konaté remains on Real Madrid’s radar, but for now, the club appears set with its current backline as they plan for the future under Xabi Alonso.