Real Madrid eye another centre-back even with Konaté deal done

The Merengue club isn’t slowing down. Even with the arrival of Ibrahima Konaté practically confirmed – the defender becomes a free agent after the end of his contract with Liverpool -, Real Madrid keeps scouring the market in search of more reinforcements in defence. Mourinho wants options. And he is working on it personally.

The coach steps in directly

José Mourinho, the Spanish club’s new manager, contacted two names in particular: Rúben Dias, of Manchester City, and Tomás Araújo, of Benfica. The coach’s direct involvement reveals that the priority in defence goes beyond a single reinforcement. Two players, distinct profiles, simultaneous approaches.

The list also features the German Nico Schlotterbeck, of Borussia Dortmund. His contract runs until 2031, which would normally close any conversation – but there is a release clause in the deal, and that changes the scenario completely. High figures, yet negotiable.

Midfield is also on the radar

Even with the arrival of Bernardo Silva, the reshaping work in the central area isn’t over. The name circulating most strongly is that of Mateus Fernandes, a 21-year-old who stood out at West Ham even amid the club’s relegation to the English second division.

Interest in the Portuguese is broad. Manchester United, Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain are also monitoring the player, which promises to drive up the value of any negotiation. West Ham, for its part, has already signalled that it does not intend to give up the athlete without significant compensation. The dispute is going to heat up. Real are willing to enter it.