Sources: Real Madrid prepare three-man shortlist to bolster key area of concern | OneFootball

It is no secret that Real Madrid want to reinforce their midfield for the 2025/26 season.

In fact, according to Fichajes, the club has drawn up a shortlist of three high-profile targets, namely, Nicolo Barella, Enzo Fernandez, and Alexis Mac Allister, seeing them as players capable of adding composure, creativity, and vision to the squad.

Since taking over, Alonso has made it clear to Real Madrid’s sporting directors that he needs a midfielder who can act as the brain of the team.

Someone who can control the tempo, dictate play, and bring balance to an already talented squad. For him, this type of player is crucial to completing his project at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Real Madrid prepare for long-term midfield hunt

Initially, the club’s dream target was Rodri from Manchester City. However, that option is now completely off the table.

The Spanish midfielder is settled at City, and the Premier League champions have no interest in opening talks. With Rodri out of reach, Real Madrid have shifted their focus to Barella, Enzo, and Mac Allister.

Real Madrid are keeping an eye on Enzo Fernandez. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

These transfers won’t be easy as all three players are vital to their current clubs and have long-term contracts, meaning Madrid would have to consider transfer fees that could climb well into triple-digit millions.

Assessing the three

Among them, Barella might be the most realistic option in the short term. Inter Milan could be more open to discussions compared to Premier League clubs, where selling key players like Enzo or Mac Allister would require massive bids.

For now, Real Madrid are in no rush. The club is aware that the market could shift, making these moves more feasible.

In the meantime, Alonso will continue to work with the current core of midfielders, including the likes of Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Aurelien Tchouaméni, while keeping an eye on future opportunities.