Real Madrid are already planning for next season, with reports claiming the Spanish giants have drawn up a shortlist of three defensive targets to strengthen their backline.
According to talkSPORT, the Whites are keeping a close eye on three of Europe’s most highly-rated centre-backs: Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano and Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate.
All three players’ contracts are due to expire in 2026, and Madrid could sign one of them on a free transfer, reflecting the strategy that allowed them to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold for free this summer.
Marc Gehi is a man in demand.
Guehi, who has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders and is a regular in the England squad, is thought to be near the top of Madrid’s wish list.
The 25-year-old has been an outstanding performer for Crystal Palace and has been praised for his consistency.
The English defender almost joined Liverpool in the summer transfer window but collapsed at the last minute and will spend this season at Palace, although the Reds remain interested in signing him next year.
His performance has attracted attention in other countries as well, with Bayern Munich reportedly considering signing him in January.
In addition to Gehi, Upamecano and Konate are also on the radar of Madrid.
Real Madrid consider Guehi a good value option
One of the main motivations for Madrid’s interest in the trio is the timing of the deal. With all three due to become free agents in 2026, Los Blancos could negotiate a pre-contract agreement as early as January 2026.
Madrid strengthened their belief in this model by signing Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer this summer.
With the futures of all three defenders beyond 2026 uncertain, Los Blancos are poised to attack at the right time.
They could face Liverpool in the transfer window as they aim to sign Gehi.
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