Real Madrid’s Transfer Issues: Squad Restrictions & Player Departures

Here’s a breakdown of the real Madrid situation based on the provided text:

The Core Problem: Player Exits Needed for Signings

Real Madrid is facing a notable hurdle for the upcoming season: they cannot make new signings without player departures. The squad is currently at its limit, and to bring in reinforcements, especially in midfield as requested by Xabi Alonso, players must be moved on.

Squad Numbers and Registration Limits:

Real Madrid currently has 23 players. The allowed registration limit is 25 players.
Franco Mastantuono is expected to be the 24th player.
This leaves only one free spot for a new signing.

The Dilemma with Gonzalo:

Gonzalo’s place in the first team squad is uncertain because the club wants to reserve that final spot for a potential new signing.
Both Xabi Alonso and the club’s management want Gonzalo to stay, but they acknowledge that there are more pressing needs in other areas of the team.

Financial constraints and Defensive Spending:

Real Madrid has made significant investments in reinforcing the defense.
While they received income from reaching the Club World Cup semi-finals,they still need to generate more revenue and,crucially,reduce salary mass to balance their accounts. The current wage bill is high.

The August Deadline:

Real Madrid has the month of August to decide whether to sign a midfielder or register Gonzalo.
Signing a guaranteed player would require a significant financial outlay and careful planning to maintain the club’s annual financial balance.

Players Who Are not Counting on the Team:

Rodrygo: He is willing to leave this summer, but offers are scarce, and the proposals received don’t meet his salary expectations. All parties are aware of the situation and are working towards a solution.
Alaba:
He has one year left on his contract.
He is the second-highest earner at the club.
He has struggled to regain his previous level after a serious knee injury in December 2023.
Despite returning in January, he has been hampered by physical problems. Real Madrid already has four center-backs for the next season, making Alaba’s presence redundant.
However, Alaba is reportedly unwilling to leave and is resolute to recover his best form, intending to fulfill his final year of contract.
Mendy:
Fran García has gained Xabi Alonso’s trust after the Club World Cup and his excellent performance.
Mendy has also been plagued by injuries throughout the season and is not a priority.
The signing of Rüdiger (implied by “carreras” which likely refers to a new defender) creates overbooking at left-back, making Mendy the third option.
Similar to Alaba, Mendy is reportedly not keen on leaving and believes he can regain his best form.The Current State of Uncertainty:

Whether they can sign a new player.
Whether they can register Gonzalo.
Whether any of the players who are not part of the plans will actually leave.

The text concludes by stating that the departure of players is currently a intricate issue.