Real Madrid make Declan Rice a priority target as Arsenal face transfer fight

During the summer, Real Madrid were left frustrated after failing in their bid to sign a new top-level midfielder. They were priced out of a move for Enzo Fernandez , while Rodri turned them down in favour of joining arch rivals Barcelona , which made that snub all the more painful for club bosses – and head coach Jose Mourinho .

Nevertheless, Real Madrid are looking to the future in their bid to add quality to their midfield. Another option alongside the likes of Federico Valverde , Aurelien Tchouameni and Bernardo Silva is still wanted, especially as Eduardo Camavinga has done little to dispel doubts about his ability to command a first team spot after a slow start to the 2026-27 campaign.