Real Madrid are widely expected to reinforce their backline next summer, with Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba both tipped to depart the club. The Spanish giants have identified Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konaté as their main candidate, although Marc Guehi has also emerged as a serious alternative.
The England international has drawn Madrid’s attention after it was confirmed earlier this week that they have entered the race for his signature. Barcelona are also pursuing him, but Real Madrid’s interest could alter the picture considerably.
Guehi’s contract situation and preferences
Guehi’s current deal with Crystal Palace ends next June, and he has no plans to extend it. That will make him a free agent in 2026. Liverpool nearly secured his services in the final days of the summer transfer window and are preparing another approach once he becomes available, but Madrid’s involvement could block their pursuit.
According to reports from The Mirror via CaughtOffside, the defender has instructed his camp that his preference is to sign for Real Madrid over Liverpool and Barcelona. Guehi is said to be keen on testing himself abroad, with the chance to feature regularly at the Santiago Bernabéu alongside Eder Militao and young talent Dean Huijsen an appealing prospect.
One or two new Arrivals?
Although Madrid could potentially bring in two defenders if both Rüdiger and Alaba leave, the presence of Huijsen, Militao, Raúl Asencio, Aurelien Tchouaméni (as a backup option in central defence), and academy prospect Joan Martínez makes a double signing unlikely.
For now, Konaté remains the front-runner. However, if he commits his future to Liverpool with a new contract, Guehi could quickly move to the top of Real Madrid’s list. How the situation develops in the coming months will determine who ends up strengthening the club’s defence.
