Real Madrid set one condition for the signing of new midfielder this summer

Real Madrid are not planning to sign another midfielder this summer unless one of their current players leaves, despite missing out on their priority target Rodri.

According to The Athletic, the club’s current stance is that the squad is complete. 

Real Madrid already have seven midfielders competing for three positions in Jose Mourinho’s system, leaving the club reluctant to add another player without creating space first.

It must be remembered that Mourinho made his desire for a creative midfielder clear from his first meeting with the club, and Real Madrid responded by signing Bernardo Silva. 

However, the club’s transfer plans in midfield now appear to be on hold.

Even though the situation could still change if a player leaves before the window closes, with no member of the current squad actively pushing for an exit, Real Madrid are facing a difficult situation.

Real Madrid have signed Bernardo Silva from Manchester City. (Photo by David Balogh/Getty Images)

Mourinho’s expected 4-2-3-1 formation includes three central midfield positions: two deeper roles and one attacking playmaker.

Real Madrid believe they already have enough depth to cover those positions, with seven midfielders offering different profiles and tactical qualities.

The squad includes players capable of providing energy, defensive cover, creativity and attacking threat. 

Jude Bellingham, for example, offers a direct presence in and around the penalty area, while Bernardo Silva was brought in to provide the creative quality Mourinho wanted.

Notably, the club have also experimented with other solutions during pre-season, with Trent Alexander-Arnold being used in midfield during certain phases of play when Real Madrid have possession. 

The role is not unfamiliar to him, although it is unlikely to become his primary position under Mourinho.

Real Madrid have no plans to sign a new midfielder. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images)

Understandably so, the club’s view is that there are at least two players capable of covering every position within the 25-man squad and that depth is one of the main reasons why a new midfielder is not expected.

Real Madrid had explored the possibility of strengthening their midfield further, with Rodri among the players of interest.

However, the Spanish midfielder now appears more likely to join Barcelona, leaving Real Madrid without one of their key targets.

Even so, the club is not expected to rush into the market for a replacement.

According to the report, Real Madrid’s position is clear: there will be no new midfield signing unless departures create room in the squad.

That could prove difficult because no current player is reportedly looking to leave.