Real Madrid’s search for a successor to Toni Kroos has been complicated by Rodri’s decision to join Barcelona, leaving Jose Mourinho with limited options to restore control and creativity in the centre of the pitch.
Kroos’ departure has left Real Madrid without a clear answer to one of their most pressing questions: who will take charge of the midfield? The club had identified Manchester City midfielder Rodri as the most urgent solution, but his move to Barcelona has closed off a deal that could have addressed a problem which has been evident for the past two seasons.
Real Madrid are now under pressure to find a player capable of directing their build-up and setting the tempo from midfield. The club have already completed several signings with the new La Liga campaign only two weeks away, including Marc Cucurella, Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate, Bernardo Silva, Carlos Espi and Yann Diomande.
However, those arrivals have not resolved the shortage of a recognised playmaker in the middle of the team. Since Kroos left, Real Madrid have lacked the player able to act as the side’s “compass” – someone who can organise their attacks and provide the control required in central areas.
That weakness has become increasingly apparent during the past two seasons and has made Rodri a priority for both the club’s supporters and its hierarchy. His decision to move to Barcelona has instead reduced the number of realistic alternatives available to Real Madrid.
The transfer window remains open until the end of 1 September, giving the Spanish club time to pursue another target. Mourinho wants further reinforcement in midfield, although the scope for additional business could depend on the futures of several members of the current squad.
Eduardo Camavinga and Raul Asencio are among the players whose situations could affect Real Madrid’s plans. Departures may be required to create room for new arrivals, particularly if the club decides to make a late move for a midfielder.
Some other players linked with Real Madrid are considered difficult to sign. Paris Saint-Germain pair Joao Neves and Vitinha are among the names thought to be beyond easy reach, but Mundo Deportivo reports that the club could revisit a small group of midfield targets during the final days of the window.
Zubimendi, Stiller and Wharton on the list
Martin Zubimendi is described as the leading option. The Spanish midfielder, now with Arsenal, was strongly considered by Real Madrid last season at the request of Xabi Alonso before he chose to join the English club.
Zubimendi has not yet produced the season expected of him, but his name could return to Real Madrid’s plans. His ability to dictate play from deep would fit the profile the club currently lacks.
Germany international Angelo Stiller, who plays for Stuttgart, is another possibility. He has been linked with Real Madrid in recent months and currently intends to remain in Germany. A determined approach from the Spanish side, however, could persuade him to reconsider.
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton is also attracting attention. The 22-year-old is highly regarded in England and has been associated with a possible move to Chelsea.
Until the midfield issue is settled, Mourinho is expected to work with the players already at his disposal in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni are currently the leading candidates to form the deeper midfield pair, with Jude Bellingham moving into the number 10 role behind the striker.
Bernardo Silva and Arda Guler offer further options, although both are more naturally suited to attacking duties. That is particularly true of Guler, who usually operates in areas closer to the opposition goal.
Camavinga could also provide cover if he remains at Real Madrid. His future is still being discussed, despite his desire to stay and the fact that he has not been a regular first-choice player. If the Frenchman remains, he is likely to be viewed as a secondary option because, although he can play in several positions, he does not currently have a fixed or clearly defined role in midfield.
