Real Madrid Set for Defensive Overhaul This Summer

Real Madrid are planning a major change in defense this summer. New manager Xabi Alonso wants to improve center back and left back positions first.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Xabi Alonso told Real Madrid‘s managers it is necessary to make the defense stronger before the 2025/26 season. The club agrees and wants to sign at least one new center back and a left back. This big change in defense is needed because injuries made midfielder Tchouaméni play as a center back for a long time.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Real Madrid’s defensive problems have been clear this season. Key defenders Éder Militão and David Alaba have long-term ACL injuries, limiting the team’s options. Carlo Ancelotti had to depend a lot on Antonio Rüdiger and young player Raúl Asencio in central defense. Asencio did well enough to get a new contract and will stay next season, but the club wants more new players.

Los Blancos are interested in Bournemouth‘s Dean Huijsen. He had a great first season in the Premier League with 25 appearances and 2 goals. The 19-year-old Spain international may move to Madrid. His release clause is reportedly set at £50 million. Another possible target is Tottenham‘s Cristian Romero. Madrid is watching him as part of their defensive changes.

WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

As the summer transfer window nears, Real Madrid’s sporting directors will work on Alonso’s plan to strengthen the defense. They already have Raúl Asencio for next season but want more center backs, like Huijsen and Romero. The left back spot is another priority, but no specific targets have been named yet.

Real Madrid is still in the running for trophies this season, but they are starting to focus on building a stronger team for Xabi Alonso’s first year as manager. This defensive change is important for the club to stay competitive in La Liga and European matches next season, especially after the weaknesses shown this season.