Real Madrid to assess starlet’s condition after long-term injury before final decision on summer plans | OneFootball

While Real Madrid prepare for the final phase of the season after their Copa del Rey final defeat, the work in the offices continues in the background to shape the squad for next season.

Carlo Ancelotti’s exit will materialise in the next few weeks while the Merengues’ sporting department is focused on strengthening the squad in the full-back slots as well as in midfield.

As far as the centre-back department is concerned, Real Madrid understand there are some issues but have not yet made a final decision on whether to sign a new player or not, and will only do so after assessing several factors.

Joan Martinez’s fitness levels could dictate summer plans

One such factor which could dictate whether Real Madrid decide to bring in a new centre-back or not, according to MARCA, is the physical level and fitness of youngster Joan Martinez.

Los Blancos have concerns over the physical condition of David Alaba (knee problems), Eder Militao, and Antonio Rudiger, who has been carrying a knee issue all season and has shown erratic behaviour under pressure.

Joan Martinez is rated highly at Real Madrid. (Photo by Ricardo Nascimento/Getty Images for DFB)

As such, the idea of signing a new central defender is not fully ruled out.

However, before making a final decision, Real Madrid wish to evaluate the recovery of Martinez and assess his fitness levels who missed the season due to an ACL injury sustained during the pre-season tour in 2024.

Martinez is rated very highly within the club and was set for a fast-track into the first-team setup before his serious knee injury. The youngster’s recovery has progressed well and he is closing in a return to full training.

As such, Real Madrid wish to take a proper look at how his recovery has gone and whether he is in a position to make the transition to the first-team setup before a final decision on a new centre-back signing is made.