Three free agents Real Madrid should consider signing in the summer

Real Madrid will be approaching a defining summer after what has happened so far in the 2025/26 season.

Behind the trophies and the aura, structural cracks are starting to show, particularly in defence and midfield.

The situation at the back is becoming increasingly urgent, while the midfield has entered a post-legend era.

The reality is that Real Madrid badly need a defender, not just numbers, but a leader.

With Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba both expected to leave , and Eder Militao struggling to stay fit, Madrid cannot afford another stopgap solution.

At the same time, the midfield needs a guiding figure as the influence of past greats fades.

With that context, here are three free agents Real Madrid should seriously consider this summer.

Guehi could be a great addition. (Photo by Eddie Keogh/Getty Images)

Real Madrid’s biggest defensive problem is not just injuries, it is the lack of a commanding organiser.

Guehi fits that profile perfectly. Calm, authoritative and positionally strong, he already plays like a senior defender despite still being in his prime.

Guehi excels in reading the game. He anticipates danger early, steps out confidently and organises those around him.

This leadership quality is exactly what Madrid are set to lose with the expected departures of Rudiger and Alaba.

Unlike defenders who rely purely on physical dominance, Guehi combines intelligence with aggression, making him ideal for a high-line system.

Under Alonso, who demands structure and clarity in the first phase of build-up, Guehi’s comfort on the ball would be invaluable.

He does not overcomplicate things, but he progresses play with purpose.

As a free agent, signing a defender of his leadership calibre would be a major strategic win for Real Madrid .

Diogo Leite is an underrated option to have. (Photo by Pau Barrena/Getty Images)

While Guehi brings leadership, Diogo Leite offers balance. Left-footed centre-backs are already rare breeds, and Madrid’s need for one is growing.

Leite is composed, tactically disciplined and reliable in one-on-one situations.

The current Union Berlin defender’s game is built on positioning rather than recovery pace.

He stays compact, wins aerial duels and keeps the defensive line organised. For a Madrid side, his ability to circulate the ball safely from the back fits perfectly.

Crucially, Leite would not arrive as a short-term fix. He has the maturity and consistency to grow into a regular starter.

In Alonso’s system, where defenders are asked to contribute to build-up while maintaining defensive order, Leite’s profile makes sense.

Leon Goretzka’s experience could be key to Alonso’s rebuild. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

Real Madrid’s midfield has entered a delicate phase, as the departures of iconic orchestrators have left a leadership vacuum.

While Goretzka may not be at the same technical level as Luka Modric or Toni Kroos, he brings something Madrid urgently need – experience, physical authority and leadership.

Alonso does not need Goretzka to replace Modric or Kroos stylistically. He needs him to anchor the midfield emotionally and tactically.

Goretzka’s experience in high-pressure environments and his familiarity with structured systems make him a strong candidate to lead a younger midfield group.

As a free agent, his signing would add stability without long-term financial risk.