Madrid Universal

Real Madrid’s planning for next season is already well underway, and a recent revelation from Defensa Central offers a clear insight into how seriously the club are taking their recruitment work.

According to the report, Real Madrid sent a club scout to attend the Crystal Palace vs Tottenham match to closely monitor three specific players who are the club’s radar.

The focus of the scouting mission was on Marc Guehi, Adam Wharton, and Micky van de Ven.

While the match ended in a narrow victory for Tottenham Hotspur, the result was largely irrelevant from a Real Madrid point of view.

What mattered was the individual assessment of these profiles, all of whom could potentially fit into the club’s long-term project.

Report on the players

Starting with Guehi, the Crystal Palace captain delivered a composed and reliable display.

From the scout’s perspective, the defender was solid throughout the game, showing good positioning and decision-making.

However, the assessment suggests that while he did his job efficiently, he did not produce a performance that truly stood out above the rest.

For Real Madrid, this kind of consistency is valued, but they will continue to analyse whether Guehi has the ceiling required to become a leading centre-back at the Bernabeu.

Wharton, on the other hand, left a more dynamic impression. The young midfielder enjoyed a strong outing and showed moments of real authority in the centre of the pitch.

Real Madrid have been keeping a close eye on midfield profiles who can bring order and balance, and Wharton’s performance only strengthened his case as a player to follow closely over the coming months.

Lastly, Van de Ven also earned positive marks from the scouting report. The Tottenham defender impressed with his presence at the heart of the defensive line, combining physical strength with recovery pace.

His overall display was rated as good, with particular praise for how he stood out when dealing with defensive transitions, an area Real Madrid are keen to improve next season.

Real Madrid’s intention to strengthen their defence is no longer a secret, and the club’s recruitment work continues to expand.

While several established names have already been linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu, a new and intriguing profile has now emerged on the club’s radar.

According to Defensa Central, Joane Gadou, an 18-year-old centre-back currently playing for Red Bull Salzburg, has recently been added to Real Madrid’s shortlist.

Despite his young age, Gadou is already being viewed as one of the most promising defensive talents to emerge this season, and his rapid development has not gone unnoticed by Real Madrid.

Internally, the club see him as a long-term investment rather than a short-term fix, which fits perfectly with their current recruitment philosophy.

Good option to scout

Gadou has begun to establish himself as a regular starter for Salzburg. One of the standout aspects of his game is his physical profile.

Standing at an imposing 1.95 metres, he is dominant in aerial duels, strong in direct confrontations, and difficult to overpower.

Beyond his physical attributes, Real Madrid’s internal reports highlight his maturity and tactical awareness.

Reflecting the optimism around his potential, sources close to the club have said, “He’s a very good player, with a lot of room for improvement, but at a very high level for his age.”

That said, there is no intention to rush into an immediate transfer. Real Madrid are aware that signing a centre-back is one of the most important tasks they must address next summer, but patience remains central to their approach.

The club prefer to monitor Gadou’s progression over time, ensuring that any move fits the current scheme of plans

Real Madrid forward Rodrygo is currently experiencing one of the most challenging periods of his career at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Once seen as a crucial part of the club’s attacking setup, the Brazilian has struggled to secure a consistent starting role under Xabi Alonso, raising growing uncertainty about his future in Madrid.

Despite his talent and past contributions to the club’s success, Rodrygo’s influence has noticeably dipped this season.

His reduced involvement has not gone unnoticed by other European clubs, and in recent weeks, Tottenham Hotspur were among the teams linked with a possible move for the Brazilian.

Reports suggested that the Premier League side had placed Rodrygo on their shortlist of attacking reinforcements ahead of the next transfer window.

Rumours are not true

As it turns out, according to respected journalist Florian Plettenberg, those rumours appear to be wide of the mark.

The transfer expert has revealed that talk of Tottenham actively pursuing Rodrygo is not accurate, adding that a deal is not possible primarily due to the player’s high salary.

That said, Plettenberg did not entirely rule out a potential transfer, noting that “a move in January remains possible”, with Rodrygo’s situation being quietly monitored as the market develops.

Notably, the 24-year-old’s current contract with Real Madrid runs until 2028, giving the club complete control over his future.

Wants to fight for his place

For now, however, Rodrygo has no desire to leave, as the Brazilian remains determined to turn things around in the Spanish capital.

His current plan is to stay patient, focused, and make the most of every opportunity to earn back Alonso’s full trust.

While frustration over his limited minutes is understandable, the Brazil international continues to train with intensity and wait for the moment to prove that he still deserves to be an essential part of Real Madrid’s future.

Dayot Upamecano has become a man in demand in the transfer market, given that his contract at Bayern Munich stands to expire at the end of the season.

The French international has been brilliant so far this season for Vincent Kompany’s team, attracting serious interest from several other top clubs across Europe, with Real Madrid being one among them.

The Merengues see Upamecano as one of their key targets ahead of a possible defensive overhaul, with both Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba staring at an uncertain future.

PSG ready to step in

However, according to RMC Sport, Paris Saint-Germain have also entered the race for Upamecano, and are ready to make an offer if he decides not to renew with Bayern Munich.

The Bavarian giants continue to negotiate actively with the player’s representatives, determined to secure his long-term future after signing him in 2021.

However, if no agreement is reached, PSG are ready to step in with a formal proposal. It must be noted that, from January 1, 2026, Upamecano would be free to sign a pre-contract with any club of his choosing.

The report further states despite Real Madrid testing waters over a move, the reigning French and European champions remain the strongest suitor for Upamecano at the moment.

Upamecano on PSG links

Currently in France to play for the national team, Upamecano gave a measured response when asked about the interest from PSG – neither closing the door nor opening it fully.

“Paris Saint-Germain is a very, very big club, with a great coach and magnificent players. But for now, my mind isn’t on that,” he said.

“I’m focused on Bayern Munich and the French national team. The season is still long, and I have an agent for that. I’m concentrating on Bayern Munich, and I hope we can achieve our goals for the end of the season.”

With Bayern Munich sparing no efforts to renew Upamecano and now PSG also entering the picture, Real Madrid have their task cut out if they intend to bring the Frenchman to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Rodrygo’s role at Real Madrid appears to be diminishing, with the Brazilian no longer commanding the same influence he once had at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The signs of his decline became apparent during the latter stages of the 2024/25 season, and under new manager Xabi Alonso, his situation has worsened.

Once a vital piece of Madrid’s attack, Rodrygo now finds himself drifting towards the fringes of the squad.

In that regard, according to a report from Fichajes, both the club and the player are keeping all options open, including the possibility of a transfer.

Tottenham enter the fray

With the January window approaching, Tottenham Hotspur have entered the frame.

The Premier League side is drawing up a list of potential reinforcements, and Rodrygo has emerged as one of the names under consideration.

Although he is not their top priority, the club view him as a realistic and exciting target should Madrid decide to entertain offers.

As per reports, Tottenham are searching for a quick, versatile, goal-scoring forward who can adapt swiftly to the Premier League’s physical and tactical demands.

Rodrygo’s profile fits perfectly into that mould.

Tottenham are also said to be taking a pragmatic approach to their January plans, focusing on realistic signings rather than unattainable stars.

If Real Madrid open the door, they are prepared to move quickly and make a formal offer.

Committed to Real Madrid

While Rodrygo, who is also wanted by Chelsea, has consistently expressed loyalty and commitment to Real Madrid, he is aware that regular playing time is essential to stay in contention for the Brazilian national team at the FIFA World Cup.

Last summer, the winger attracted interest from Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool, though none of those pursuits advanced beyond initial inquiries.

This time, however, Tottenham appear to be in the strongest position to test Madrid’s resolve.

Real Madrid will be desperate to respond after their disappointing Champions League setback against Liverpool as they travel across the Spanish capital to face Rayo Vallecano later today.

The defeat at Anfield has left Xabi Alonso’s men hungry for redemption, and a strong performance at Vallecas could be the perfect way to reassert their domestic dominance.

Despite the European frustration, Los Blancos remain firmly in control of La Liga.

They currently sit at the top of the table with a five-point cushion over Barcelona, and the trip to Rayo presents another opportunity to strengthen their grip on first place.

Their opponents, meanwhile, have had a steady start to the campaign, collecting 14 points from their opening 11 matches.

When it comes to recent meetings, Real Madrid have had mixed fortunes against Rayo.

They narrowly edged a 2-1 win in their last encounter back in March, but overall, they have managed just two victories in their last six games against the same opposition.

That statistic alone will serve as a warning that nothing can be taken for granted.

On that note, let’s take a look at how Real Madrid could lineup today.

Defence

In goal, there is absolutely no debate – Thibaut Courtois will start.

The Belgian international was outstanding against Liverpool, single-handedly preventing the scoreline from becoming embarrassing.

His consistency and leadership make him an automatic choice between the sticks.

In defence, Trent Alexander-Arnold could make a surprise return to the starting XI after featuring as a substitute earlier this week.

At centre-back, Eder Militao is expected to line up alongside Dean Huijsen, as David Alaba, who only recently recovered from a muscle problem, may not be risked from the start.

On the left, Alvaro Carreras should retain his position after a series of strong performances that have impressed the coaching staff.

Midfield

The midfield will see the biggest adjustment following Aurelien Tchouameni’s hamstring injury.

The Frenchman’s absence leaves a void in the pivot role, but Eduardo Camavinga looks poised to step in.

The young Frenchman’s dynamism, ball-carrying ability, and tactical awareness make him a natural fit to anchor the midfield.

With Alexander-Arnold potentially returning to his natural position, Federico Valverde is expected to move back into central midfield, where his energy and work rate are most effective.

Jude Bellingham will continue to dictate play in the final third, while Arda Guler offers creativity and flair on the ball.

Depending on the game’s flow, Alonso could toggle between a diamond 4-4-2 and a fluid 4-3-3 shape.

Attack

Up front, the deadly partnership of Vinicius Jr. and Kylian Mbappe is set to take centre stage once again.

Both players will be eager to bounce back after a quiet night at Anfield, and their chemistry could prove decisive against Rayo’s compact defensive line.

Brahim Diaz, who continues to push for more minutes in the absence of Franco Mastantuono, is expected to start in support, adding creativity and balance to the front line.

Meanwhile, Rodrygo might have to settle for a role off the bench once again, offering fresh legs and pace in the latter stages of the match.

Real Madrid could be in line for a surprise windfall as one of their former players, Takefusa Kubo, continues to attract serious interest from the Premier League.

According to a report from Defensa Central, Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly preparing a move for the Real Sociedad winger, who has become one of La Liga’s standout performers over the past year.

The Japanese international has a €60 million release clause in his current deal, which runs until 2029.

Despite that long-term contract, his impressive displays have not gone unnoticed, and Tottenham are said to have made Kubo one of their top attacking targets for the next transfer window.

While Spurs have yet to decide whether they will trigger his full release clause, reports suggest that they are ready to submit a proposal close to that figure.

How much will Real Madrid pocket?

Even if Tottenham manage to negotiate a fee slightly below €60 million, Real Madrid would still stand to gain significantly from the deal.

When Los Blancos sold Kubo to Real Sociedad, they cleverly retained 50% of his rights, meaning if the deal goes through, they will pocket around €30 million.

Any future transfer involving Kubo means that half of the proceeds would go straight into Madrid’s coffers.

The Madrid hierarchy reportedly have no intention of re-signing the 24-year-old, as the squad already boasts a wealth of attacking talent.

Yet, the club would certainly welcome the unexpected financial boost, especially if the transfer goes through.

It remains to be seen whether Tottenham formalise their pursuit, but if they do, Real Madrid could soon cash in once again on a player they once nurtured, this time without lifting a finger.

The future of Nico Paz has been a subject of much discussion lately, especially amid speculation linking him to a move to Tottenham Hotspur.

The Premier League giants have reportedly tabled a bid worth €50 million, but the move has been made complicated by Real Madrid’s involvement.

Although Paz is no longer a Real Madrid player, Los Blancos own 50% of the player’s transfer rights, meaning Real Madrid have an option to match any offers that come for the youngster.

Como president on Real Madrid’s involvement

In a recent interview with Corriere Dello Sport, Como president Mirwan Suwarso has openly spoken about Paz’s future and how Real Madrid’s involvement has affected the club’s decision making.

When asked about recent links to Spurs, Suwarso said (h/t Mundo Deportivo), “Transfer rumours about Tottenham? It’s not true that we rejected the offer.”

Suwarso added that no one makes an offer for Paz due to Real Madrid’s involvement in the transfer.

“No one makes offers (for Nico Paz) knowing that we would then have to send them to Real Madrid, who have the right to match them,” he said.

Recent reports suggest Como are in talks with Real Madrid to re-negotiate the terms of the Paz deal as the Italian feel hard done by.

Suwarso added that keeping hold of Nico Paz was not an easy task this summer, especialy as the Argentine was keen on playing for his former club.

Nico Paz was one of the rising stars in Serie A last season thanks to a brilliant campaign that saw him flourish under the leadership of Cesc Fabregas.

Formerly of the Real Madrid academy, Paz’s excellent season meant that his valuation skyrocketed immediately, much to the benefit of Los Blancos.

Real Madrid hold a buyback clause in Paz’s deal which will allow them re-sign the player for less than €10 million – a clause that can be activated within the next two years.

Real Madrid also hold a special clause that will entitle them to half the proceedings to any sale Como make on the young Argentine.

Como and Real Madrid in talks to renegotiate the deal

However, a recent report from The Athletic suggests Como and Real Madrid in talks to re-negotiate the terms of the clauses.

This is hardly surprising as Como, under the current structure, feel hard done by. The Italian outfit have essentially nothing to earn from Paz’s potential sale.

Como are liable to only half the proceedings from Paz’s sale while Real Madrid are also in a position to re-sign the player for less than €10 million.

This is quite unfair considering the fact that Como had played a key role in nurturing Paz and raising his valuation.

Therefore, the two clubs are in talks, with Como representatives recently attending Real Madrid’s league opener against Osasuna.

This comes on the back of recent reports suggesting that Tottenham Hotspur have had a massive €70 million bid rejected by Como for Paz, with Real Madrid playing a key role in it.

A renewed agreement, therefore, favouring Como could be on the horizon as Real Madrid do not wish to lose control of Paz’s future with plans to bring him back to the club next year.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Real Madrid had a key role in shutting down Tottenham Hotspur’s latest attempt to sign Nico Paz from Como.

The journalist mentions that Spurs put forward a huge €70 million package for the 20-year-old midfielder, but the offer was turned down yesterday.

While Tottenham were serious in their pursuit, Nico made it clear that he wants to remain at Como for now, keeping his long-term sights set firmly on Real Madrid.

Madrid, on their part, were ready to match any offer for Nico to protect their future plans. The club are more than happy to see him continue his development in Serie A, knowing that his return to the Santiago Bernabeu is not far away.

As things stand, his move to Madrid in the summer of 2026 looks very likely.

Tottenham’s gamble rejected

It must be noted that Tottenham turned their attention to Nico after missing out on Eberechi Eze, but their €70m bid was immediately dismissed.

This was not Spurs’ first approach either, as Como had already rejected an earlier attempt.

The Italian side remain keen to hold onto their rising star, while Madrid are monitoring everything closely in the background.

Notably, Real Madrid also have a €10m buy-back clause for 2026, though reports suggest the club are willing to compensate Como further in the future as a sign of respect for his development there.

Nico has already shown he has the quality to perform at the top level, and his time in Serie A is shaping him into a more complete player.

If he maintains this level of growth, Xabi Alonso could have another exciting midfield option waiting for him next season.

For Madrid, the long-term picture is clear – Nico is a player they do not want to lose, no matter the price on the table.

As Real Madrid look to beef up their defensive unit, Piero Hincapie has been one of the names linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

In a Leverkusen team that has witnessed a mass exodus this summer, Hincapie is a strong candidate to become the last player to leave the club, following the footsteps of Granit Xhaka, Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Amine Adli and Jonathan Tah, among others.

Real Madrid are one of the clubs keeping close tabs on Hincapie, owing to the player’s connection with coach Xabi Alonso.

Hincapie ready to leave Leverkusen

Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg has offered an update on Hincapie’s future, suggesting that the defender is ready to leave Leverkusen in this final week of the transfer market.

Leverkusen are keen on keeping hold of the Ecuadorian international, knowing they might find it difficult to find a replacement within a week.

However, with Real Madrid, among other clubs, interested in his services, the player could be tempted to take the next leap in his career.

Acquiring the services of the centre-back, though, could prove to be costly, with the defender having a release clause worth €60 million.

While Hincapie is ready to leave Leverkusen if a suitable offer arrives, Real Madrid might find it difficult to fund a €60 million move in a summer where they have already spent €178 million.

Therefore, Real Madrid might not be in a position to make a move for the Bundesliga star unless they can sanction a big money sale this summer.

Rodrygo, for one, has been closely linked with a move away from the Bernabeu and his potential sale could pave the way for Real Madrid to sign a new defender.

However, the Brazilian international has shown no desire to leave the club so far.

Fresh from missing out on top summer target Eberechi Eze, Tottenham Hotspur are desperate to bring in attacking reinforcements in the final days of the transfer window.

The club have recently proposed a loan offer for Real Madrid starlet Rodrygo, although it is unlikely that the Brazilian international would want to join the Lilywhites.

In light of their recent failures in the market, Spurs are now targeting a move for former Real Madrid player Nico Paz.

Tottenham want to sign Paz

This is according to the Telegraph, which suggests that Spurs are eyeing a move for Paz as an alternative to the club’s main target Maghnes Akliouche.

Paz was one of Serie A’s rising star last season as he impressed onlookers with his creativity in the final third.

Spurs’ interest in Paz is quite interesting for Real Madrid’s perspective as the club still retain control of the player’s future.

Indeed, Los Blancos hold a buyback clause in the Argentine starlet and have the opportunity to bring back the youngster in less than €10 million.

If Spurs do approach the player this summer, Real Madrid will have the option to bring him back and then perhaps sell him immediately for a quick profit.

The Spanish giants, though, would idelly want to see Paz remain at Como next season so that the youngster can continue his rapid progress under Cesc Fabregas.

Another impressive season in Serie A, after all, could go a long way in skyrocketing Paz’s valuation, thus making it all the more lucrative for Real Madrid to cash in on the player.

Alternatively, Real Madrid can always bring back Paz and make him a part of the first-team, especially if Rodrygo does end up leaving the club this summer.

The past 12-24 hours have seen some dramatic action in the Premier League transfer market involving two of the traditional ‘Big Six’ clubs.

Tottenham Hotspur appeared poised to sign Crystal Palace winger Eberechi Eze for a fee of around €60 million.

However, following an injury blow to Kai Havertz, Spurs’ bitter rivals Arsenal moved decisively for the winger and now appear primed to secure his signing from Palace, with the deal likely to be made official on Friday.

Tottenham to move for Savinho, leading to Man City raid for Rodrygo

As such, GloboEsporte (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Tottenham’s response to this has been to increase their offer for Manchester City winger Savinho.

The north London club are putting €80 million on the table to sign the Brazilian winger, a player Pep Guardiola has stated he wants to keep.

If the move were to happen, Manchester City would not stand still. They would immediately turn their focus to Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes.

The 24-year-old finds himself in a complicated situation at the Santiago Bernabeu but is highly admired by Guardiola.

The move appeared to have stalled with Savinho’s exit blocked, but with the young winger now back on Tottenham’s agenda, it could prompt Manchester City revisit their interest in Rodrygo.

The Brazilian international did not play even a single minute in Real Madrid’s La Liga opener against Osasuna on Tuesday. Unless the situation improves, an exit could be on the horizon before the transfer window closes.

Real Madrid are beginning to weigh up the possibility of selling Vinicius Jr. in 2026, according to reports from SPORT.

The Brazilian forward’s contract renewal talks have stalled, creating a tense standoff between the player and club president Florentino Pérez.

Vinicius is asking for a significant pay rise in his new deal, but Real Madrid are refusing to meet his demands.

For now, Florentino Perez has tabled a counteroffer, yet the 24-year-old is unwilling to compromise.

His current contract runs until 2027, and his plan is to serve the two years left before leaving as a free agent to whichever club meets his salary expectations.

This development has frustrated Madrid’s hierarchy, who feel misled after previously believing an agreement had been reached.

The club had even leaked news of a supposed renewal, only for talks to collapse shortly after. Perez is now seriously considering a transfer for the winger as early as next summer if the situation does not improve.

What is Real Madrid’s plan then?

Meanwhile, the uncertainty surrounding Vinicius is indirectly opening doors for his teammate Rodrygo. Both Brazilians favour the left wing, yet Vinicius has always been the first-choice option.

Should Real Madrid move Vinicius on, Rodrygo would finally get the continuity and opportunities he has long been seeking.

Vinicius’ situation is proving more complicated than expected. He is now in his eighth season at the Santiago Bernabeu, with the club having stood by him through injuries, poor form, and heated controversies with opponents, referees, and even fans.

However, Madrid are starting to tire of his demands and off-field distractions. The loyalty shown to him for years could soon turn into frustration, making a departure more likely than ever.

With the clock ticking on his contract, the club may be forced to make a decisive move sooner rather than later to avoid losing one of their biggest assets for free.

Tottenham Hotspur are stepping up their search for attacking reinforcements after missing out on Real Madrid winger Rodrygo.

According to Fichajes, Spurs have now turned their attention to Brahim Diaz, another standout from the Bernabeu.

The North London club is reportedly exploring urgent options to bolster their midfield and attack following the departure of Heung-min Son to MLS.

Among the candidates gaining momentum is Brahim, whose performances last season have caught the eye of several top clubs.

His goalscoring ability, along with his technical skill and ability to adapt quickly to the English style, make him a highly attractive option.

Real Madrid and Brahim not considering exit

Despite Tottenham’s growing interest and willingness to spend, Brahim Diaz appears off-limits.

Real Madrid have no plans to sell the Moroccan international, who is close to signing a new contract after a solid campaign that saw him become a key figure in the squad.

Meanwhile, new manager Xabi Alonso, who is preparing for a demanding season both in La Liga and Europe, considers Brahim essential to his tactical setup.

Brahim, who has attracted interets from Serie A teams as well, has proven himself to be a versatile attacker, capable of playing across the entire front line.

Real Madrid value Brahim

His ability to come off the bench and change the course of games has made him one of Madrid’s most reliable impact players. Within the dressing room, he has earned the respect of teammates and coaching staff alike.

Moreover, Brahim has made it clear that he’s committed to staying at Real Madrid, making a Premier League switch highly unlikely.

While Tottenham may continue to monitor the situation, neither the player nor the club seem interested in altering their plans.

For now, it seems Tottenham will need to look elsewhere, as Brahim Diaz remains firmly part of Real Madrid’s future.