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De Sky: Real Madrid will trigger a chain reaction of central defender transfer; Alaba/Rudiger will be the key

2:38pm, 21 October 2025【Football】

Hupu, October 20th Sky Sports Germany conducted an in-depth analysis of the upcoming central defender transfer storm. This storm revolves around Rudiger, Alaba, Konate, Gueye and Upamecano. A domino effect of central defenders that may be fully launched next summer is gradually taking shape.

The first is Araba. The former Bayern defender is considered a possible departure. According to news from Sky Sports Germany, it is currently unlikely that Alaba will renew his contract with Real Madrid. Despite this, the 33-year-old Austrian is still pushing for a new contract. The club has yet to make a final decision, but frequent injuries over the past four seasons have clouded his future.

In contrast, Rudiger's situation is slightly different. A few weeks ago, the two sides were still discussing a new contract until 2028, but the negotiations have now reached an impasse. Saudi clubs are keeping a close eye on the 32-year-old Germany international. Rudiger is in the recovery stage due to a thigh injury and is expected to return in mid-December.

If Alaba and/or Rudiger eventually leave the team, Real Madrid will have a vacancy in the back line. Konate's name therefore entered Real Madrid's candidate list. The 26-year-old French central defender's contract with Liverpool will expire next summer, and he may leave as a free agent. The Red Army hopes to renew Konate's contract. Related negotiations have been going on for several months, but there is no conclusion yet. Regardless, Konate has become the focus of Real Madrid's attention.

If Konate leaves, Liverpool's potential replacement is Gueye. Crystal Palace coach Glasner recently confirmed that Gueye will not renew his contract, which means that he will leave the team for free at the end of the season. Liverpool came close to signing the 25-year-old England international this summer, but the deal fell through at the last minute as Palace failed to find a replacement. In addition to Liverpool, Barcelona is also interested in Guei, and the player himself dreams of joining Real Madrid. In addition, Sky Sports Germany pointed out that Bayern Sports Director Eber also admires Guei very much and is considering introducing him to Munich after his contract expires.

This central defender chain reaction may eventually return to Bayern Munich. Upamecano's contract with Bayern will also expire next summer. Eberle previously emphasized in an exclusive interview with Sky Sports Germany that renewing Upamecano's contract is the highest priority. Bayern hopes to extend the contract of the 26-year-old France international until 2030, but the two sides are still divided over salary issues. Despite this, Ebel remains optimistic and is actively advancing negotiations.

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