Real Madrid have decided on their first summer signing

Los Blancos plan major summer overhaul with one signing already decided and midfielders from the Premier League being targeted

Real Madrid‘s transfer strategy for the upcoming summer window is taking shape, with the club identifying multiple positions requiring reinforcement as they prepare for a significant squad overhaul.

The first piece of business involves bringing back Nico Paz from Como for €9 million to bolster their midfield options.

The Argentine international has become one of Serie A‘s breakout performers since his move to the Italian club. Paz, who previously debuted with Real Madrid‘s first team, impressed enough during his time in Italy that the club’s management decided to exercise their option to reacquire him.

His creativity and technical ability address some of the gaps that have emerged in Madrid’s midfield this season.

Since joining Como in the summer of 2024, Paz has recorded 15 goals and as many assists in 61 games across all competitions.

“One name I keep mentioning is Nico Paz, because Real Madrid maintain full control thanks to their buy-back clause from Como,” transfer expert Fabrizio Romano said.

“The player is doing very well in Italy and Real Madrid are monitoring every game closely, very happy with his development. There was never a real possibility of a January return. Como were not prepared to lose him mid-season and the player wanted stability ahead of the World Cup.

“In the summer, however, it will be a different conversation because Real Madrid consider Nico Paz an important part of their future project.”

😲 Dani Carvajal was stunned when Trent Alexander-Arnold came on instead of him at Valencia.

🧳 The Real Madrid captain’s future is now in serious doubt after seemingly being third choice right-back.https://t.co/JSnCJ5zVwL #RMFC #LFC

— BBSportNews (@thebbsportnews) February 9, 2026

Defensive rebuild takes priority

The most urgent area requiring attention is central defence. Real Madrid is actively searching for a pair of centre backs to replace David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger, whose contracts both expire at season’s end.

Several names have circulated in media reports, but none of the rumoured targets appear close to actually joining the Bernabéu. The club’s management continues scouting options that fit both their sporting requirements and financial parameters.

Dani Carvajal‘s situation adds another layer of complexity to the defensive rebuild. The right back’s future remains undecided with his contract also expiring in June, potentially forcing Madrid to enter the market for his replacement as well.

The left-back position could see even more dramatic changes. Fran García appears headed for the exit, and the club would welcome Ferland Mendy‘s departure if an opportunity arises. Should both leave, Real Madrid would prioritize signing a new left back to provide competition or partnership with whoever remains.

Beyond defence, Madrid’s management has identified a creative central midfielder as essential to improving the team’s overall play.

Vitinha represents Madrid’s preferred target, though extracting him from Paris Saint-Germain appears nearly impossible. The club is also monitoring Manchester City’s Rodri closely as an alternative. Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández and Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister have been mentioned, along with younger prospects like Dan Wharton and Kees Smit.