According to a report by renowned ESPN journalist Rodra, Real Madrid has officially closed the door on any player signings or sales for the upcoming January transfer window. Following the loan departure of Endrick to Lyon, club management has shifted its strategic focus entirely toward the summer of 2026. While internal discussions acknowledge gaps in the current squad, the hierarchy has decided against mid-season reinforcements due to the scarcity of quality options and inflated winter market prices.

A key tactical concern for manager Xabi Alonso involves finding a long-term successor to Luka Modrić. Alonso has attempted to transition Arda Güler into a deep-lying playmaker role, but after half a season, the results have been deemed limited. Consequently, Madrid has begun scouting alternatives, with Dutch midfielder Stijn Spierings (Smit) reportedly joining their shortlist. For now, however, the club is prioritizing the summer window to address structural weaknesses, particularly in central defense, with a focus on players whose contracts expire in June 2026.

The upcoming year is expected to be a period of significant transition at the Bernabéu. The futures of three core pillars—Vinícius Júnior, Dani Carvajal, and Antonio Rüdiger—remain uncertain. While Vinícius and the club both wish to continue together, contract negotiations have reached a stalemate. Meanwhile, aging and fitness concerns regarding Carvajal and Rüdiger mean the club is preparing for their potential departures to Saudi Arabia or Qatar. To offset these changes, Real Madrid plans to integrate academy graduates Nico Paz, Chema Andrés, and Jacobo Ramón into the first team for the new season.