Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images
In contrast to recent speculation, it has come to light that Real Madrid are not planning a move for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, the Spanish international, who has often been mentioned as a potential successor to some of Madrid’s veteran midfielders, is not on the club’s radar for the upcoming transfer windows.
Over the past few weeks, several reports had suggested that Madrid viewed Zubimendi as one of the best options available in the current market to control the midfield.
Many believed that the club had already made him a priority, considering his tactical intelligence and ability to dictate the tempo, qualities that seemed a natural fit for the club’s long-term midfield structure.
Madrid focused on other key areas
Despite their admiration for Zubimendi’s qualities, however, sources close to the club confirm that Real Madrid do not consider midfield reinforcements a priority right now.
Real Madrid are not thinking about Martin Zubimendi. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
They are reportedly satisfied with the depth they already have in that area, which includes elite talents like Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde, and Jude Bellingham.
Instead, the club is focusing its efforts on two other fronts. The first is the left-back position, with Alvaro Carreras from Benfica emerging as a top target.
However, the deal has hit a few snags due to the Portuguese side’s financial demands. Should the Carreras deal fall through, Madrid will look at alternative names for the position.
Meanwhile, the signing of young River Plate sensation Franco Mastantuono is also a major priority. Madrid already have an agreement in place, and the player is expected to join after the Club World Cup.
Lastly, another interesting situation is that of Nico Paz. Initially expected to return to Madrid, the club is now considering allowing him to spend another season on loan at Como in Italy to continue getting regular playing time.
Official: Real Madrid miss out on South American wonderkid for Club World Cup
Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images
It has been made official that Real Madrid won’t sign Franco Mastantuono just yet, as the 17-year-old will travel to the United States with River Plate to take part in the FIFA Club World Cup.
Although the young Argentine has already secured his big move to Real Madrid, he will stay with his current club for the duration of the tournament before joining Los Blancos.
It is said that River Plate pushed hard to retain the talented playmaker for as long as possible. Their aim was to keep him until the end of the year, especially for the Copa Libertadores.
However, it now appears that Real Madrid will pay his €45 million release clause and bring him to Spain shortly after the tournament.
Despite this, the strong relationship between both clubs allowed for a temporary compromise, letting the 17-year-old remain available for one last major competition with his boyhood team.
Contract is ready
River Plate coach Marcelo Gallardo has already named Mastantuono in the squad of 34 players heading to the United States for the FIFA Club World Cup.
📝✈️ Los elegidos por Marcelo Gallardo para viajar a Estados Unidos y representar a River en el primer @FIFACWC 🌎#FIFACWC | #RiverMundial 🤍❤️🤍 pic.twitter.com/amEFmXiO2j
— River Plate (@RiverPlate) June 10, 2025
While he will be crucial for River in the short term, the long-term plan remains clear that Mastantuono is set to join Real Madrid in time to prepare for the 2025/26 season.
Sources in Spain suggest that Xabi Alonso sees the teenager as a player who can add quality and creativity to the midfield.
In line with Real Madrid’s current strategy to protect their young talents, Mastantuono will sign a contract that includes a staggering €1 billion release clause.
Mastantuono, who turns 18 this summer, is seen as one of the most promising young players in South American football.
Real Madrid’s decision to wait a little longer before bringing him over highlights their respect for River Plate’s wishes, but also signals just how much value they place on the teenager’s future.