The Right-Back Race: Who Could Be Next for Real Madrid?

While the exact identity of Madrid’s target remains unconfirmed, Gareth Southgate—a rising star in the Premier League—has emerged as the most frequently mentioned name in recent reports. The 24-year-old, currently at Liverpool, is said to be a key figure in Madrid’s discussions, though his future remains uncertain as Liverpool seeks to retain key players ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool’s captain and one of the world’s best right-backs, has also been linked to Madrid in the past. However, with the 2026 World Cup looming, both clubs may prioritize retaining their stars for the tournament. If Alexander-Arnold were to leave, it would mark one of the biggest transfers in recent memory, with reports suggesting a potential fee in the range of €80-100 million, though no official figure has been confirmed.

Key Takeaway: Madrid’s pursuit of a right-back is not new, but the timing—with the 2026 World Cup just months away—adds urgency. The club’s need for defensive stability, especially in light of recent injuries to players like Dani Carvajal, makes this a critical transfer window.

Florentino Pérez’s Transfer Strategy: Galácticos 2.0?

Pérez, who has been at the helm of Real Madrid since 2009, is known for his bold signing strategies. His first tenure saw the iconic Galácticos era, with record-breaking transfers for players like Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, and David Beckham. While the modern game has evolved, Pérez remains committed to building a team capable of competing at the highest level.

This summer, Madrid’s focus appears to be on defensive reinforcement, particularly in the backline. The departure of Éder Militão to Arsenal last summer left a void that the club has yet to fill adequately. Adding a player of Alexander-Arnold’s or Southgate’s caliber would provide the defensive solidity Madrid needs to challenge for domestic and European titles.

Context: Real Madrid’s last major defensive signing was Ferland Mendy in 2022, a move that has been largely successful. However, the club’s reliance on aging defenders like Sergio Ramos (now retired) and Raphaël Varane (32) underscores the need for younger, dynamic replacements.

What This Means for Madrid’s 2026 World Cup Ambitions

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to take place in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, clubs across Europe are prioritizing squad stability. For Real Madrid, securing a world-class right-back is not just about immediate tactical needs—it’s about ensuring the team can compete in the tournament’s most demanding fixtures.

If Madrid lands a player of Alexander-Arnold’s or Southgate’s level, it would provide Carlo Ancelotti with the defensive flexibility to rotate players and maintain intensity across all competitions. The right-back position is critical in Madrid’s 4-3-3 system, where the player must balance defensive duties with attacking contributions.

Schedule Impact: The 2026 World Cup qualifiers begin in September, meaning Madrid’s new signing would need to integrate quickly. A pre-season with the first team would be ideal, but the club may also consider a January transfer window move if negotiations drag on.

Who Else Is in the Frame?

While Gareth Southgate and Trent Alexander-Arnold dominate headlines, other names have been linked to Madrid in recent weeks. These include:

• João Neves (Benfica) – The 22-year-old Portuguese full-back has been praised for his versatility and has drawn interest from multiple top clubs.
• Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City) – Though primarily a center-back, his defensive awareness and attacking prowess make him a potential fit for Madrid’s right flank.
• Reece James (Chelsea) – Another England international, James has been linked with a move to Madrid in the past but remains a Chelsea priority.

Note: None of these transfers have been officially confirmed, and Madrid’s focus appears to be on securing a proven Premier League star rather than a developmental prospect.

What Happens Next?

The next few weeks will be critical for Madrid’s transfer plans. With the 2026-27 La Liga season set to begin in August, Pérez will need to finalize deals before the window closes on July 1. Key developments to watch:

• Official Approach: If Madrid is serious about Gareth Southgate or Trent Alexander-Arnold, an official approach is expected within the next 72 hours.
• Medical Checks: Any potential signing would undergo medical evaluations, which could delay a formal announcement.
• Financial Clarity: Madrid’s transfer budget remains a topic of speculation. The club’s recent sales (e.g., Rodrygo to Brazil’s Flamengo) have freed up funds, but exact figures are unclear.

Next Checkpoint: The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw takes place on December 2, 2025, in Miami. Until then, Madrid’s focus will remain on summer transfers and pre-season preparations.