Real Madrid News
Real Madrid president builds masterplan to sign Bundesliga defender in 2027
With a major reshuffle expected in the backline, Real Madrid are laying the groundwork for future reinforcement that is not limited to this summer.
One of the names at the centre of that strategy is Nico Schlotterbeck.
The Borussia Dortmund defender has been on Real Madrid’s radar for some time, with the club viewing him as a natural long-term successor in central defence.
Initially, Schlotterbeck was seen as a more immediate target, especially with uncertainty surrounding Antonio Rudiger’s future.
However, Schlotterbeck is now close to extending his stay at Dortmund, which has forced Real Madrid to rethink their approach rather than abandon their interest.
According to Defensa Central, club president Florentino Perez has devised a long-term strategy to keep the operation alive.
Instead of pushing for a difficult transfer now, Real Madrid are considering a different route.
What’s the story?
The plan revolves around extending Rudiger’s contract by an additional year, which would keep him at the club until 2027.
This would allow Madrid to maintain stability in defence while postponing the need for an immediate replacement.
Rudiger’s recent performances have played a key role in altering the strategy.
After returning from injury, the defender has looked sharp and reliable, showing that he can stay relevant for at least another season.
Meanwhile, Schlotterbeck’s expected renewal at Dortmund could include a crucial detail – a release clause that becomes active around 2027.
If that is the case, it would give the player greater control over his future and open the door for a move under more favourable conditions.
The Konate option
At the same time, the club are not limiting themselves to a single option, as Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool remains another player under consideration.
His contractual situation has attracted attention, although ongoing talks with his current club have so far prevented any concrete movement.
Simply put, Real Madrid are evaluating all the options and are not closing doors on any.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
