Real Madrid may face significant challenges when the transfer window opens in the New Year.

Just a month ago, alarms were blaring across Madrid. The club wasn’t dominating competitions as expected, the Kylian Mbappe experiment seemed to be faltering, calls for Carlo Ancelotti’s departure were growing louder, critics wanted Vini Jr. sold, and Jude Bellingham was struggling to find the net. Meanwhile, a younger, more vibrant, and financially constrained Barcelona had already clinched the league title.

However, football is unpredictable. A poor run from Barcelona, a string of Madrid victories, and an Intercontinental Cup later, things are suddenly looking up for Ancelotti’s side. While they aren’t atop La Liga—that spot belongs to Atletico Madrid—they are only a point behind. Furthermore, their stunning away victory against Atalanta has reinforced their status as strong contenders in the Champions League.

Yet, the January transfer window presents unusual circumstances. Although Madrid has salvaged their season, their potential isn’t as high as it once was. Key injuries to Dani Carvajal and Eder Militao have significantly weakened their defense. For once, Madrid might find themselves needing to make a few adjustments mid-season.

That said, they don’t necessarily need to splurge. Instead, strategic tweaks could suffice—a couple of loan deals, a calculated attempt for a marquee signing, and a critical decision regarding a free agent. Here are five moves Los Blancos should consider in what promises to be a fascinating transfer window.

Top 5 Moves Real Madrid Should Make in The 2025 January Transfer Window

1. Secure Trent Alexander-Arnold’s Signature (Liverpool)

Look away, Liverpool fans—this one might sting. All indications suggest that Trent Alexander-Arnold could be donning the white of Real Madrid next season. Unlike some of his fellow Reds with expiring contracts, Alexander-Arnold is in his prime, with at least five elite years ahead of him. He essentially has his pick of clubs for the remainder of his career. Add to that his friendship with Jude Bellingham, already thriving at Madrid, and the logic becomes hard to ignore.

The talented right-back has long been linked with a move to Los Blancos, and their interest is no secret. He’d slot seamlessly into Madrid’s system, his precise passing and ability to launch long balls perfectly complementing the blistering pace of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. The only potential obstacle for Madrid might be a scenario reminiscent of Steven Gerrard’s famous U-turn two decades ago.

Back then, Gerrard was heavily courted by Chelsea, and a move seemed inevitable. However, a Champions League triumph convinced him to stay at Anfield.

For Madrid, the lesson is clear: if they want to ensure Alexander-Arnold’s arrival, they’d be wise to lock in a pre-contract agreement. Securing his signature early could prevent any last-minute reconsideration, especially if Liverpool clinch the Premier League title this season.

2. Reinforce the Backline with a Center-Back Signing

Real Madrid couldn’t have foreseen the defensive injury crisis that has shaken their backline this season. Serious knee injuries to Dani Carvajal and Éder Militão were unpredictable setbacks. However, there were murmurs last summer that Los Blancos should have added an experienced defender, particularly after club captain Nacho’s departure.

Failing to replace Nacho has left Madrid scrambling for solutions. Antonio Rüdiger has been reliable as expected, but the role of his partner has been less stable. Raúl Asencio has shown promise in glimpses, yet Carlo Ancelotti appears hesitant to trust the academy graduate in high-stakes matches. Aurelien Tchouameni, though utilized at the back, hasn’t impressed—his natural skill set is better suited to midfield. With David Alaba still recovering from a significant knee injury, internal replacements remain unavailable.

This leaves Madrid with one clear option: look outward. Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah has been linked, though securing a short-term deal might prove tricky. Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen has also emerged as a potential target, though his lack of top-level experience raises concerns. Regardless, Real Madrid must act decisively to strengthen their defensive ranks.

3. Extend Luka Modric’s Stay by Another Year

Luka Modric continues to defy time. While the Croatian midfielder may no longer have the boundless energy of his peak years, he remains a crucial impact player for Real Madrid. Though his starts have become less frequent, his 30-minute appearances off the bench provide a masterclass in composure, delivering much-needed calm and control during the chaos that often defines Madrid’s matches.

Speculation about Modric’s future has lingered for some time. Many expected him to leave alongside Toni Kroos, who retired after the 2023-24 season. Rumors of a move to the Saudi Pro League or even the MLS have occasionally surfaced, but neither feels like the right fit—at least not yet.

While Madrid have improved as the season progresses, they still lack the veteran leadership necessary to see them through critical moments. This deficit isn’t likely to resolve itself in the next 18 months. As long as Modric can contribute, Madrid should prioritize securing a one-year contract extension and keep this legend at the heart of their squad.

4. Consider Loaning Out Endrick for Development

Endrick’s much-anticipated arrival at Real Madrid hasn’t been a failure, but it hasn’t exactly taken off either. Spending heavily on a teenager always carried risks, especially with Kylian Mbappé set to occupy the same position. While growing pains were expected, the young talent needed consistent minutes to navigate them—something he hasn’t received at Madrid.

Limited to sporadic appearances, Endrick has showcased glimpses of his immense potential. However, the current environment at Real Madrid isn’t conducive to his growth. To unlock his promise, a loan move seems like the logical solution.

A mid-table club in need of a striker and youthful energy could provide the perfect platform. Sevilla, struggling in 14th place in La Liga, might be an ideal domestic option. Alternatively, a move abroad to a club like Brighton or Champions League surprise package Brest could offer him valuable experience.

The key is ensuring Endrick avoids the pressure of a relegation battle and secures consistent playing time. A six-month loan could be beneficial for both the player and Real Madrid, setting him up for future success.

6. Explore the Possibility of Signing Alphonso Davies

The persistent links between Real Madrid and Alphonso Davies refuse to fade. The Canadian star’s situation at Bayern Munich has been shrouded in uncertainty, with ongoing contract negotiations yet to yield a resolution. While reports suggest progress could be made, similar optimism has lingered for nearly two years, leaving the door open for speculation.

For Real Madrid, Davies represents an ideal acquisition. The dynamic left-back is a proven world-class talent, combining electrifying pace with exceptional technical ability. He would instantly bolster a key position while also being a marketable figure likely to generate significant shirt sales.

However, securing Davies won’t be straightforward. Bayern Munich find themselves in a delicate position. While Davies may not share the emotional ties with Bayern that players like Alexander-Arnold have with their clubs, his value as an asset makes him difficult to part with. Should contract talks stall, Bayern might reluctantly entertain offers to avoid losing him for free.

Madrid would be wise to remain in the mix and ready to pounce if the opportunity arises. Davies could be the transformative signing they need, making this a situation worth monitoring closely.

Read More: Top 5 Players Who Could Help Replace Rodri And Save Man City’s Season

FAQs