Real Madrid Transfers: An early look at expiring contracts in 2022

RB Dani Carvajal

Quietly, Dani Carvajal is another world-class Madridista whose contract will expire after the 2021-2022 season. Unlike Raphael Varane, there has been no drama about Carvajal in the rumor mill. It seems as if he’s locked in to stay.

Carvajal is the best right back in the world. He’s suffered four injuries this season, and injuries are just about the only negative thing you can say about him, other than the occasional silly error. You don’t find big-game right backs or all-around influencers on a team at the position like Carvajal. He obviously needs to stay. And he may be even harder to replace than Varane, due to the dearth of complete right backs in football.

CB Nacho Fernandez

Before the 2020-2021 season, Nacho’s future would have been in some doubt. But after watching the way he has played this season in Sergio Ramos’ absence, Nacho is yet another player Real should keep around.

Nacho’s leadership and love for the club are vital intangibles, but he’s also great on the pitch. His defending has been top-notch this season, standing among the best center backs in La Liga. It’s been wonderful watching him elevate his performances. He will be affordable to re-sign.

LB/LM/AM Marcelo

I list the slashes with other positions, because while Marcelo is listed as a left back, his future truly lies at these more attacking positions. He played in these areas in 2-0 wins over Eibar and Getafe this season, and his attacking prowess in both matches was a notice to Madridistas. A notice that Marcelo can help this club.

He’s a candidate to be sold this summer, but Real could just as easily keep him around and transition him to a different position. That might actually be better for the team. His wages could be a burden, but they aren’t that onerous. More importantly, if he can be a chance-creator and a veteran leader, he can make up for the wages, which will probably be cut anyway. Where else is he going to go? Juventus?