Real Madrid are in the market for a new central defender but weren't prepared to change their transfer strategy of waiting until the summer. Not a single signing was made in January and that was a decision that came from the higher-ups.
It's been a difficult season for Madrid that continues to take twists and turns under caretaker manager Alvaro Arbeloa. A 4-2 loss to Benfica midweek was followed by a 2-1 victory against Rayo Vallecano.
Arbeloa hasn't been without issues beyond his control during his first month in charge. His side are enduring an injury crisis particularly in defense with Antonio Rudiger sidelined.
Real Madrid miss out on top defensive target
The shortlist of defenders who Madrid are thought to be considering for this summer's window is decreasing every month. There was interest in Marc Guehi but he joined Manchester City from Crystal Palace.
The club pulled out a possible move for Ibrahima Konate who is set to become a free agent this summer as things stand. The Frenchman has been poor this season so this decision is hard to argue against.
A third option was Dayot Upamecano whose current deal also expires at the end of the campaign. He would have been available on a free transfer but has now decided to extend his stay at Bayern Munich.
Fabrizio Romano reports that Upamecano has agreed on the terms of a new contract which expires in 2030. He claims that big efforts were made from the player and the German giants to get an extension sorted.
Upamecano is often regarded as one of the best central defenders in Europe and he's been a mainstay in Bayern's team this season. The 27-year-old has made 16 appearances in the Bundesliga, scoring one goal and providing one assist.
Madrid have better options than Upamecano
While Upamecano's status as a top European defender is obvious he isn't the world class center-back that many deem him to be. There are flaws in his game although he has stamped out regular mistakes this season.
The French defender hasn't looked completely reliable in big games and that includes in meetings with Madrid. He is a strong and dominant defensive prescence but Los Blancos need a calm and composed leader at the back.
🚨Paying over 120 million overall package for Upamecano is a huge mistake! He is so shaky in evey important game, even when the team plays well! pic.twitter.com/OeyNFJkaPY
— Munchen Xtra (@MunchenXtra) January 29, 2026
That's why a move for Tottenham Hotspur's Cristian Romero makes perfect sense as he is a warrior who could help the younger defenders. He has hinted at his frustrations with Spurs' project in recent months and that could help the La Liga giants if they were to make their reported interest concrete this summer.