Mundo Deportivo claims that it is becoming less probable that Real Madrid will extend the contracts of David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger, two of their seasoned defenders. All indications are that the club will permit both players to depart on free transfers when their present contracts expire at the end of the current campaign, just as they did when they first joined the Bernabeu.
For the upcoming campaign, the team has already begun the transfer process to find a new centre-back. This makes it very evident that neither Rüdiger’s nor Alaba’s future at Real Madrid is secure. Of the two, it seems more likely that Alaba will go. Although he had the option to depart this summer, the Austrian defender decided to stay and finish the last year of his contract.
Alaba is anticipated to go in the summer unless there is a surprise, since reports indicate that the club does not intend to extend his contract. According to reports, Rudiger has had offers from Saudi Arabian clubs, but he has chosen to remain at Real Madrid. He has even stated that if the club offered a renewal, he would be open to accepting it.
Real Madrid appear set to part ways with veteran duo
It is believed that Real Madrid will only have three first-team centre backs at the end of the 2025–26 season after cutting ties with David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger, both of whom have contracts that are in the last 12 months.
Los Blancos will have to look to the transfer market, where they may find a number of top-tier defenders, to cover the opening. One unexpected name that was included in Real Madrid’s defence hunt is Nico Schlotterbeck.
Despite being a complete centre defender who has been an unsung hero for Borussia Dortmund over the years, the Germany international is not as well-regarded as Los Blancos’ other targets.
Dayot Upamecano will attract greater interest from teams like Real Madrid the longer he remains without a contract extension at Bayern Munich. Getting a player of his calibre as a free agent fits in well with Los Blancos’ recent transfer strategy.
Konaté would have been a fantastic addition to Real Madrid back in January. However, because of his poor performance in 2025–2026, another soon-to-be free agent has risen to the top of Los Blancos’ want list.
