Real Madrid will only sanction another big-money signing this summer if a member of Jose Mourinho’s first-team squad leaves the Bernabeu, according to reports in Spain.
The European giants, who have already overhauled their squad in the current transfer window, are said to have imposed a strict “one in, one out” rule as they seek to avoid an unmanageable dressing-room size and protect internal balance.
Spanish outlet Cope reports that, for now, the club’s hierarchy are not planning further additions despite being linked with several high-profile targets. Instead, the immediate focus is on assessing the existing group under new head coach Mourinho before any fresh move in the market.
Major arrivals and high-profile departures
Real Madrid have been one of the most active clubs in Europe this summer, reshaping key areas of the team.
They have strengthened with the signings of Marc Cucurella, Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate and Bernardo Silva, bolstering both defence and midfield.
At the same time, several experienced names have been moved on. Dani Carvajal, David Alaba, Dani Ceballos and Fran Garcia have all left the club, creating space in the squad but also raising questions over depth and hierarchy in certain positions.
The club believes that, after this wave of business, the priority must be to stabilise and define roles within the existing group before committing to any further marquee deals.
Mourinho holds one‐to‐one meetings
Cope reports that Mourinho has already begun a series of individual meetings with his players to shape his plans for the coming campaign and to clarify who fits into his long-term vision.
These discussions are expected to trigger further internal changes, particularly regarding younger or fringe players who may not be guaranteed regular minutes.
Among those most likely to depart temporarily are Franco Mastantuono and Raul Asencio, who are being considered for loan moves to secure more consistent game time and accelerate their development away from the intense competition at Madrid.
By contrast, Gonzalo Garcia is expected to remain in the squad next season, with the coaching staff viewing him as a useful option as Mourinho looks to build depth while maintaining continuity.
Transfer targets on hold
Real Madrid have been linked with a number of high-profile names, notably Michael Olise and Rodrygo (from other clubs bearing that name), as potential late-window reinforcements.
However, club sources indicate that any move for these or other top-level targets will only be pursued if there is a corresponding departure from the current first-team list.
In practice, that means no further “galactico” type signing will be completed unless room is first created in the squad – not just in terms of registration and wages, but also in terms of playing opportunities and dressing-room dynamics.
Protecting balance after summer overhaul
The stance reflects a broader strategic objective at the Bernabeu: maintaining equilibrium within a squad that has already undergone significant change in a single window.
With several new arrivals still adapting and senior figures having departed, Real Madrid are wary of overloading the dressing room and risking discontent among players who may see their minutes squeezed.
By giving Mourinho time to work with and evaluate the current group, the club hopes to take better-informed decisions later in the window if exits materialise.
Until then, Real Madrid’s transfer policy is clear: no matter how attractive the target, another big signing will not arrive unless someone from the existing squad goes out first.
