Real Madrid Transfer News: The Midfield Revolution Continues

The search for a midfield technician could lead Real Madrid to the French capital as Los Blancos look to solve their creative struggles.

As the January 2026 transfer window heats up, Real Madrid finds itself at a crossroads. Despite a star-studded squad, the departure of legendary figures like Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos has left a void in the middle of the park that the current roster is struggling to fill. From established superstars in Paris to rising gems in the Netherlands, here is the latest on Real Madrid’s transfer strategy.

1. The Paris Connection: Fabian Ruiz and Vitinha

Real Madrid’s search for "control" in the midfield has led them directly to Paris Saint-Germain. According to reports from Fichajes and PSG Talk, the club has identified Fabian Ruiz as a primary target.

At 29, Ruiz is seen as a "veteran solution"—a player with the technical security and experience to dictate play immediately. With his contract approaching its final year, Real Madrid is reportedly circling for a cut-price deal. Ruiz's ability to thread passes through defensive lines is viewed as the perfect antidote to Madrid's recent lack of stability.

Beyond Ruiz, the "dream" target remains Vitinha. The Portuguese maestro has a €90 million release clause that becomes active in the summer of 2026. While a January move is unlikely due to the high costs, Madrid is reportedly preparing the groundwork to activate that clause if a major exit (such as Vinícius Jr.) provides the necessary funds.

2. The Battle for Kees Smit

While the board looks for experience, they are also maintaining their policy of poaching Europe’s best young talents. The name on everyone's lips is Kees Smit, the 19-year-old AZ Alkmaar sensation.

Smit has been described as a "mega talent" and has drawn direct comparisons to Barcelona’s Pedri. However, securing his signature won't be easy:

• The Price Tag: AZ Alkmaar values the teenager at approximately €60m (£52m).

• The Competition: Liverpool is reportedly ready to "go all out" to beat Real Madrid to his signature, with Newcastle United also monitoring the situation closely.

• The "Mendes" Factor: Super-agent Jorge Mendes is reportedly coordinating the deal, which usually signals a high-profile move is imminent.

3. The Federico Valverde Situation

In a shocking turn of events, vice-captain Federico Valverde has become the subject of intense Premier League interest. Chelsea, under new head coach Liam Rosenior, has reportedly prepared a $140 million (€120 million) offer for the Uruguayan.

While Valverde is considered "indispensable" by the Madrid hierarchy, rumors of a tactical rift with the coaching staff have fueled speculation. However, official sources from within the club continue to maintain that Valverde is a cornerstone of the future and that only an "unrealistic" bid would be considered.

4. Other Names on the Radar

• Bruno Guimarães: Reports suggest that if Jurgen Klopp were to take the reins at the Bernabéu, the Newcastle midfielder would be his first requested signing.

• Rubén Neves: Real Madrid is reportedly keeping tabs on the Al-Hilal midfielder, who could be available for a relatively low fee as he looks to return to European football.

• Arda Güler: On the exit front, Arsenal is reportedly lurking, hoping to capitalize on Güler's lack of consistent playing time under the current management.

The Verdict

The message from the Bernabéu is clear: the current midfield balance isn't working. Whether it is the tactical poise of Fabian Ruiz or the youthful spark of Kees Smit, Florentino Pérez and his team are ready to spend big to ensure Real Madrid remains the dominant force in European football.