Real Madrid work quietly, but always with an eye on the future. Florentino Pérez and Xabi Alonso have designed a clear roadmap to strengthen the team without rushing into hasty deals. The idea is to keep a solid core and, at the same time, take advantage of the opportunities the market offers.
The strategy, already known by fans, consists of signing top stars when their contracts end. It's a formula that has worked in the past with high-profile names and one the club wants to repeat in the new era opening under Xabi Alonso's leadership.
Florentino isn't in favor of paying exorbitant amounts when he can wait for the right moment. That philosophy fits perfectly with the profile of the latest target added to the club's agenda.
Xabi Alonso requests a reliable reinforcement
The coach has told the board that the defense needs a step up in quality. With Militao, Rüdiger, and Huijsen established in the center, Real Madrid are looking for a fourth elite center-back who can provide competition and a reliable backup.
The season is long, with many competitions at stake. Alonso doesn't want to fall short in such a sensitive position. That's why he has pointed to a specific name who meets all the sporting and contractual conditions to become a key piece of the project.
A France international on the radar
The chosen one is Dayot Upamecano, current defender for Bayern Munich. The French international, European champion and a key figure in the national team, fits the profile that excites both the coach and the president. Physical strength, anticipation, leadership, and experience on big stages.
What makes the deal even more attractive is his contract situation. Upamecano's contract with Bayern ends in 2026, and if he doesn't renew, in just a few months he could negotiate freely with any club. Real Madrid are watching calmly, without rushing, but with the conviction that these kinds of signings make the difference.
Florentino bets on patience
Florentino Pérez has already used this strategy with David Alaba, with Kylian Mbappé, and more recently with Trent Alexander-Arnold. The pattern is clear: wait for the right moment, negotiate with the player, and close the signing on a free transfer.
The plan is to entice Upamecano with a winning project, with the chance to play for a team that fights for the Champions League every year. In addition, to offer him a contract that matches his status. Patience will be the key, but at the club they trust they can repeat their success.
The player is excited and his friend Kylian Mbappé is already looking for a house for him in the Spanish capital. Upamecano is delighted with the possibility of playing for Real Madrid. He's also pleased with the idea of receiving the signing bonus Bayern doesn't want to give him.
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A deal with Real Madrid's stamp
Xabi Alonso has given his approval and Florentino has made it a future priority. The club knows it won't be easy, because Bayern will try to renew his contract, but the precedent of other cases encourages optimism.
Real Madrid have shown on more than one occasion that it knows how to move in the market better than anyone. Now, with Upamecano on the horizon, the goal is to once again make a statement of authority in the medium term.