Real Madrid’s 2025 January Transfer Wishlist: Key Areas to Address

Real Madrid heads into the January transfer window facing a challenging season by their lofty standards. Defensive injuries and inconsistent form have left Los Blancos trailing in La Liga and facing an uphill battle in the Champions League. While the club is traditionally cautious about mid-season signings, this January could be an exception, as key reinforcements are needed to salvage their campaign.

Here’s a breakdown of Real Madrid’s priorities and potential targets for the January transfer window.

1. Right-Back: A Critical Void

The Issue

Dani Carvajal’s ACL injury has ruled him out for the season, leaving Madrid short-handed at right-back. Lucas Vázquez, a converted winger, has been the primary option but lacks the defensive consistency required at this level. The situation has forced Carlo Ancelotti to deploy Federico Valverde as a makeshift right-back, highlighting the urgent need for reinforcements.

Potential Targets

1. Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool):
   • Out of contract next summer, Alexander-Arnold could sign a pre-contract agreement in January.
   • A January move is highly unlikely, but Madrid is expected to pursue him for a summer transfer.
2. Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen):
   • A dynamic, attack-minded full-back with a knack for goals and assists.
   • Frimpong’s style fits Madrid’s need for an offensive right-back.
3. Diogo Dalot (Manchester United):
   • A steady and versatile option who can contribute defensively and offensively.
   • While not as exciting as other targets, Dalot would provide immediate stability.

2. Center-Back: Reinforcing a Depleted Backline

The Issue

Injuries have ravaged Madrid’s center-back options. Éder Militão is out for the season with his second consecutive ACL injury, while David Alaba has been sidelined for over a year. Nacho Fernández’s summer departure further weakened the depth, leaving Antonio Rüdiger as the only reliable option.

Potential Targets

1. Rafa Marín (Napoli):
   • A former Madrid academy product, Marín could return on loan or a permanent deal.
   • The 22-year-old offers familiarity and potential for growth.
2. Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen):
   • A physical and experienced defender available on a free transfer next summer.
   • Madrid could move early to secure his services in January.
3. Vitor Reis (Palmeiras):
   • An 18-year-old Brazilian wonderkid often compared to Marquinhos.
   • A long-term investment who could develop into a world-class center-back.

3. Left-Back: Addressing Ferland Mendy’s Struggles

The Issue

While injuries haven’t plagued the left-back position, Ferland Mendy’s performances have been a concern. His defensive lapses and lack of consistency have seen him lose his starting spot to Fran García and even Eduardo Camavinga. Madrid needs a reliable left-back to solidify the position.

Potential Targets

1. Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich):
   • One of Europe’s best left-backs, Davies could arrive on a free transfer next summer.
   • A January move is unlikely, but Madrid could secure a pre-contract agreement.
2. Miguel Gutiérrez (Girona):
   • A former Madrid academy graduate available for just £8m due to a buy-back clause.
   • Gutiérrez has excelled at Girona, making him a cost-effective option.
3. Theo Hernández (AC Milan):
   • A former Madrid player and one of the world’s best left-backs.
   • His price tag may be prohibitive, but his quality is undeniable.

Strategic Considerations

Budget Constraints

While Real Madrid is financially stable, the club’s history of cautious January spending means they are unlikely to pursue multiple high-profile targets. Strategic, cost-effective signings or pre-contract agreements for the summer are more likely.

Balancing Immediate Needs with Long-Term Goals

Madrid must balance their immediate need for reinforcements with their commitment to building a squad for the future. Younger players like Vitor Reis or Miguel Gutiérrez could provide both short-term solutions and long-term value.

Conclusion

Real Madrid’s 2025 January transfer window presents a crucial opportunity to address weaknesses in their defense and bolster the squad for the second half of the season. While blockbuster signings may be reserved for the summer, targeted reinforcements at right-back, center-back, and left-back could make the difference between salvaging their season and falling short of their lofty ambitions.

FAQs

1. Why is right-back a priority for Real Madrid?
Dani Carvajal’s season-ending injury has left Madrid without a reliable option at right-back, forcing makeshift solutions that have exposed their defense.

2. Who are the top targets for center-back?
Rafa Marín, Jonathan Tah, and Vitor Reis are potential options to reinforce Madrid’s depleted backline.

3. Is Alphonso Davies likely to join Madrid in January?
A January move for Davies is unlikely, but Madrid could secure a pre-contract agreement for a summer transfer.

4. What is Real Madrid’s approach to the January window?
Madrid typically avoids major January signings but may prioritize cost-effective solutions and pre-contract agreements for the summer.

5. Can Madrid turn their season around with January reinforcements?
Targeted signings in key defensive positions could stabilize the squad and improve their chances in La Liga and the Champions League.