Real Madrid targets the 2026 transfer window to lock in the England international centre-back

Real Madrid aims to move in January 2026, locking in the England international central defender

According to the British media "The Athletic", Real Madrid has listed Crystal Palace captain Mark Gueye as its top signing target in 2026, and plans to issue him a formal personal contract in January 2026 to start transfer negotiations.

By then, Gueye's contract with Crystal Palace will enter the final six months, and he will have the right to negotiate free transfers with any overseas club, including Real Madrid. The two parties are expected to officially complete the signing in the summer of 2026, and Guey will join the Bernabeu as a free agent.

In addition to Real Madrid, Premier League giants Liverpool and La Liga powerhouse Barcelona have also expressed strong interest in Guei. However, Real Madrid believe that the player himself has a strong desire to join the legendary "Los Blancos", which will become a key advantage for them to stand out from the competition.

In fact, in the 2025 summer transfer window, Guey was very close to joining Liverpool. But Palace managed to persuade the captain to change his mind at the last minute and sign a one-year contract extension with the club. Guey himself felt deeply helpless. He immediately publicly stated that he would not renew his contract and confirmed that he would leave the team as a free agent when his contract expires in the summer of 2026.

Real Madrid’s move is seen as an operation with great strategic vision and financial wisdom. Without paying any transfer fee, they are expected to introduce a top central defender in his prime. As the team's veterans David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger gradually enter the later stages of their careers, coach Xavi Alonso and the club management are actively looking for a young core who can carry the banner of the defense in the next decade.

Guey, who is only 25 years old, is considered an ideal candidate. As the captain of Crystal Palace, he is known for his excellent defensive anticipation, calm ball-playing ability and amazing recovery speed. His technical characteristics perfectly fit the modern football style of Real Madrid that has emphasized attacking from the backcourt in recent years. In addition, he has become a regular member of the England national team and has continued to prove his strength and stability in the highly competitive Premier League.

If Guei can be successfully signed, Real Madrid's defense will usher in an important rejuvenation and upgrade.

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