Real Madrid are already thinking about their transfer plans for next summer, and the idea is for another handful of signings to be made. It’s well-documented that a central defender is wanted amid uncertainty about the futures of Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba, but midfield will also be addressed.

Alongside a new centre-back, one more guaranteed addition is that of Nico Paz. Real Madrid decided against triggering his buy-back clause this summer, but the plan is for him to return to the Santiago Bernabeu in 2026 – as confirmed by Diario AS. But he will not be the only midfielder to arrive.

Real Madrid intend to sign a new defensive midfielder to compete with Aurelien Tchouameni, and according to the report, they have two leading candidates on their shortlist: Adam Wharton and Chema Andres.

Real Madrid have registered their interest in Wharton in recent months, with the Crystal Palace man seen as an ideal player to strengthen Xabi Alonso’s pivot options. However, he would not come cheap, and they would also face competition from the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United, who have also been linked of late.

Chema return would be significantly cheaper

As for Chema, Real Madrid had initially hoped that he would move on from Stuttgart in a move that would allow them to rake in significant funds, given that they retained 50% of his rights from his exit during the summer. However, it now seems that he will be considered for a return to the club, providing that he continues with the very encouraging form he has shown in Germany.

Chema would be a much cheaper alternative for Real Madrid, given that they believe he could be brought back for as little as €10m – whereas Wharton would likely cost in excess of €80m. This could come into their thinking, although club bosses have never been scared to splash the cash when required.