Real Madrid’s massive spending spree in 2019 is a distant memory of the past, five years later. The Spanish giants spent over €200 million signing players, but only three are still in the team as regulars.
The most prolific name is Eden Hazard – the Chelsea legend joined Real Madrid for €115 million as their most expensive player ever. However, things didn’t work out as expected as injuries and poor form prevented him from reaching a fraction of the heights he did at Stamford Bridge.
Real Madrid’s transfer strategy shows dramatic change over the past five years
Luka Jovic joined Madrid from Eintracht Frankfurt for €63 million, but even he didn’t work out. The same can be said for Reinier, who joined for €30 million. However, Ferland Mendy, Rodrygo and Eder Militao, each signed for a fee between €45-50 million, have all become regulars in the team.
Since then, Madrid have spent money on players very carefully. They spent around €40 million on Eduardo Camavinga, which proved to be a bargain, signed Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba on free transfers, and made only one big money signing in Aurelien Tchouameni, but made up for it through the money earned by selling Casemiro and Raphael Varane to Manchester United.
Jude Bellingham joined for €103 million alongside Arda Guler for €20 million, and Fran Garcia for €5 million. They were joined by Kepa Arrizabalaga and Joselu signing on loan.
🚨 Kylian Mbappé’s future is settled and his decision is made. There are no doubts.
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) April 18, 2024
The player will join Real Madrid.
(Source: @FabrizioRomano) pic.twitter.com/1Szpd7nzYo
This summer, too, their plan is to sign Kylian Mbappe on a free transfer and welcome Endrick from Palmeiras, after the youngster was signed two years ago for €45 million. Madrid have balanced their spending with their sales, and maintain their squad very well. In doing so, they have emerged as one of the shrewdest clubs in Europe in terms of doing business.
