Real Madrid have been one of the busiest clubs in Europe following a disappointing 2025/26 campaign. Los Blancos finished behind Barcelona in La Liga. They also suffered a Champions League quarter-final exit at the hands of Bayern Munich.
The trophyless season ultimately brought an end to Alvaro Arbeloa’s spell in charge and paved the way for Jose Mourinho’s return to the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Portuguese manager has already overseen a major rebuild. Marc Cucurella arrived from Chelsea in a €55 million deal, while Denzel Dumfries joined from Inter Milan for €20 million.
Real Madrid also strengthened their squad with free transfers for Bernardo Silva and Ibrahima Konate.
Despite those additions, Mourinho still wants another central defender before the transfer window closes.
According to Defensa Central, intermediaries recently informed Real Madrid that Spain international Aymeric Laporte could be available for €25 million this summer.
The 32-year-old has enjoyed an excellent World Cup campaign with Spain. He has formed a strong partnership with Pau Cubarsí and helped La Roja concede just once on their route to the semi-finals.
Laporte’s performances have reportedly caught the attention of several clubs across Europe. However, Real Madrid have decided against making a move.
The report claims the club’s hierarchy remain focused on signing a younger centre-back instead of investing in an experienced option approaching the latter stages of his career.
Benfica defender Tomas Araújo and Sporting CP star Goncalo Inacio are both believed to be under consideration at the Bernabeu.
Real Madrid also feel well covered defensively following Konate’s arrival and Antonio Rudiger’s contract extension, despite David Alaba leaving the club earlier this summer.
As a result, Laporte’s impressive World Cup displays have not been enough to change Madrid’s transfer plans. And the Spain international is now expected to continue his career away from the Spanish capital.
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