Real Madrid is aiming to strengthen its defense and find a replacement for Dani Carvajal. As the winter transfer window nears its end on February 3, rumors are still circulating about potential moves for the club. However, despite the flurry of speculation, President Florentino Pérez and his team are focused on long-term plans, particularly for the 2025-2026 season. While no major signings are expected in the immediate future, the club is closely monitoring emerging young talent worldwide.
Ancelotti’s Confidence in the Current Squad
In early January, Carlo Ancelotti stated that Real Madrid has no intention of making any new signings this transfer window, expressing satisfaction with his current squad. He highlighted the return of David Alaba, whose recovery has exceeded expectations, bolstering the team’s defense. This recovery suggests that the need for another center-back is not urgent at the moment.
Real Madrid’s Long-Term Vision
Even as the club is content with its current roster, they are not losing sight of future needs. Club sources reveal that the sports management team is actively working on future planning, particularly in strengthening the defense. Juni Calafat, who plays a pivotal role in scouting, continues to evaluate top young talents from around the world.
Jorrel Hato: A Rising Star
One player catching Real Madrid’s attention is Jorrel Hato, an 18-year-old center-back from Ajax. Hato is viewed as one of the club’s promising long-term projects, and he is on a shortlist alongside other top young defenders like Gonçalo Inácio, Antonio Silva, and Ousmane Diomandé. Hato is seen as a potential complement to Antonio Rüdiger in the future.
Youth Development and La Fábrica
In addition to international prospects, Real Madrid remains committed to nurturing talent from its own youth academy, La Fábrica. Players like Joan Martínez, Raúl Asencio, and Jacobo Ramón have stepped up in the wake of Carvajal and Militão’s injuries. While these absences have been significant, they have provided opportunities for young players to prove themselves, and the club remains focused on their development.
In summary, Real Madrid is combining its efforts to bring in top international talents while continuing to develop young players from within the club as it prepares for future success.
