Real Madrid’s Free Transfer Strategy: A Selective Approach

In recent years, Real Madrid has developed a reputation for acquiring world-class talents on free transfers, leveraging its significant global prestige to entice top players to run down their contracts and arrive at the Bernabeu without incurring a transfer fee.

One of the most notable instances of this strategy was the case of Kylian Mbappe, who was linked to Los Blancos for several seasons before ultimately signing for free in the summer of 2024. His former club, PSG, later pursued legal action against the transfer but was unsuccessful, resulting in a court order to pay Mbappe €61 million (£53 million/$71.8 million) in unpaid wages and bonuses.

However, recent reports from AS indicate that Real Madrid has grown weary of engaging in bidding wars and consistent player offers presented by ambitious agents looking to capitalize on the club’s transfer policy for publicity. The club is now evaluating potential free agents for the upcoming summer but has reportedly rejected three specific players: Ibrahima Konate, Dayot Upamecano, and Ruben Neves.

The futures of French center-backs Konate and Upamecano at Liverpool and Bayern Munich, respectively, are uncertain as they enter the final six months of their contracts. Previous indications suggested that Real Madrid had decided against pursuing Konate due to a recent decline in form.

While these defenders may seek new opportunities next summer, it appears that the Bernabeu will not be their destination. The same holds true for former Wolves captain Neves, who has been speculated to return to Europe once his contract with Al Hilal expires in 2026. All three players have reportedly been offered to the Spanish giants, who have established a clear policy of ‘absolute silence’ to avoid negotiations driven by agents.

Despite Real Madrid’s recent success in attracting players through lucrative free transfers, as evidenced by the signings of Mbappe, David Alaba, and Antonio Rudiger, the club is not solely focused on this market. Initially, Trent Alexander-Arnold was also expected to be added to this list but was signed earlier for a €10 million ($11.7 million) fee ahead of the Club World Cup.

There have been instances where agents have utilized Real Madrid’s interest to secure enhanced terms for their clients at their current clubs. A notable example is Alphonso Davies, who was linked to Real Madrid before ultimately signing a new deal with Bayern last summer.

As Real Madrid anticipates continued activity in the free agent market in 2026, several players are set to become available, including Marc Guehi, Bernardo Silva, Dusan Vlahovic, and the previously scouted Leon Goretzka. However, it appears that Konate, Upamecano, and Neves will not be joining the Spanish giants, contrary to speculations linking them to a move to the fifteen-time European champions. Their rejection leaves open possibilities for Los Blancos’ transfer decisions in the year ahead, with the January window set to open shortly.