Reports: The key traits Real Madrid are targeting for midfield reinforcement | OneFootball

Real Madrid are actively seeking to strengthen their midfield with a specific type of player: an organising and defensive-minded midfielder.

According to SPORT, this has become a priority for the club as they look to bring balance to their squad.

While the team already boasts a wealth of talent in the midfield, most of the players in this area have offensive tendencies. Jude Bellingham, Brahim Diaz, and Arda Guler are notable examples of players who excel in advanced roles.

Real Madrid want a different profile

The profile Real Madrid are searching for is best exemplified by Manchester City’s Rodri. However, signing the Spanish international appears unrealistic.

Rodri, who is under contract until 2028, would command a starting price of around €130 million. His current importance to City makes any potential transfer highly unlikely.

Other names on the club’s radar include Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich, though he is not a traditional deep-lying midfielder, and AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, who plays a pivotal role in the Italian side’s game.

Kroos’ exit changed everything

Real Madrid are keeping an eye on Joshua Kimmich too. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

The departure of Toni Kroos has left a significant gap in Madrid’s ability to build play from deep.

Carlo Ancelotti has experimented with various solutions, relying on players like Aurelien Tchouameni, Federico Valverde, and Eduardo Camavinga when the latter is fit.

Luka Modric, now 39, continues to contribute but is being carefully managed due to his age and commitments with the Croatian national team.

Dani Ceballos has recently shown signs of stepping up, adapting his game to fit Madrid’s requirements by focusing more on quick ball circulation rather than unnecessary dribbling.

Struggle is evident

While the midfield has muscle and defensive solidity, Madrid are struggling to consistently transition the ball effectively from defence to attack.

This has created a disconnect between the defensive line and the creative talents of Bellingham, Brahim, and Guler, who operate behind the attack.

As the season progresses, it is clear that Real Madrid’s technical staff are aware of this pressing issue.

They need players capable of both defending and orchestrating play. With Modric potentially in his final season and Ceballos just beginning to gain Ancelotti’s trust, finding the right reinforcement has become essential.