Real Madrid have had a decent start to the 2025/26 campaign under the leadership of Xabi Alonso as they are currently leading the La Liga points table.
Los Blancos are gradually adapting to Alonso's new style of play, and they also faced a rare blimp when they lost 5-2 against Atletico Madrid.
However, they are desperate to prove that as an aberration and have continued to dominate oppositions even after the Madrid derby.
While they have invested a lot of money on their defense this summer with the signings of Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras and Trent Alexander-Arnold to strengthen their roster.
They are expected to continue their spending spree next summer on defense as they are looking to replace a couple of ageing defenders in Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba.
Hence, they have been linked with several centre-backs who are available in the market for free or for nominal transfer fee next summer.
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There were rumours that Real Madrid are pushing for a free transfer of Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate, who's contract is expiring next summer.
However, considering his recent performances for Liverpool, he has gone down the pecking order among Los Blancos' shortlisted options.
According to reports on Spanish publication Cadena SER, Real Madrid have prioritized a move for Bayern Munich defender Dayot Upamecano over Konate next summer.
The Spanish giants are ready to offer the Frenchman €20m ($23m) signing fee something that he has demanded at Bayern Munich.
The Bavarians are keen to hold on to Upamecano and are in constant talks with his agent over contract extension despite the strong interest from Real Madrid.
Why are Real Madrid prioritizing a move for Upamecano?
Upamecano has been one of the most improved players under Vincent Kompany's reign at Bayern Munich.
He is someone directly responsible for their outrageous start to the season with 10 straight wins across competitions.
The Frenchman's abilities are known to all, but his primary problem has been around his consistency throughout the season. He has been guilt of some infamous errors which has taken down his goodwill as a worldclass defender.
As per reports, Upamecano is happy in Munich and wants to continue under Kompany but his demands of wages and signing bonus have been a point of different in the contract renewal talks.
The 26-year-old wants appreciation from Bayern management just like they did in their previous contract extension with Alphonso Davies.
Overall, Upamecano has been excellent in building from defense, brings physicality and also has great recovery pace and is well equipped to play in different systems.
Therefore, he becomes an ideal fit for Alonso's system and would be a great player to partner Huijsen in Real Madrid's backline if the deal goes through next summer.
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