Real Madrid shortlist five midfielders as Mourinho backs €100m-rated star

According to a report by Madrid Universal on Saturday October 10, 2026, Real Madrid are considering five midfield targets as they look to strengthen their midfield, with José Mourinho believed to favour a different profile from some of the options preferred by the club’s technical staff.

According to journalist Miguel Serrano, as relayed by Defensa Central, Adam Wharton, Kees Smit, Martín Zubimendi, Manu Koné and Alex Scott have emerged as potential candidates for the Spanish giants.

Wharton is reportedly the midfielder Real Madrid admire most, but Crystal Palace’s valuation of more than €100 million could complicate any attempt to bring the England international to the Santiago Bernabéu.

The reported interest comes amid growing questions about Real Madrid’s ability to control matches consistently and create chances against difficult opponents. Strengthening the middle of the pitch is therefore becoming an important consideration as the club assesses its future recruitment plans.

Wharton has reportedly emerged as Real Madrid’s preferred target among the five midfielders under consideration.

The Crystal Palace midfielder has attracted attention for his composure in possession, passing range and ability to dictate the tempo of a game. Those qualities could make him an attractive addition for a Real Madrid side looking to improve its control in midfield.

However, the reported price tag presents a significant obstacle. Crystal Palace are said to be demanding more than €100 million for the England international, a valuation that could force Real Madrid to consider whether the investment would represent good value.

Although Wharton appears to be the leading candidate, the Spanish club could explore alternative options rather than commit such a substantial fee to one player.

The report also highlights a difference between Mourinho’s preferences and the thinking of Real Madrid’s technical staff.

Koné, who plays for Roma, is understood to have been proposed by Mourinho as a potential midfield reinforcement. The Frenchman offers athleticism, energy and the ability to carry the ball through midfield, qualities that could appeal to a manager seeking greater intensity in the centre of the pitch.

However, Real Madrid reportedly view Koné as a player with similarities to Federico Valverde.

That assessment could influence the club’s decision, particularly if the recruitment department believes the squad would benefit more from a midfielder who offers a different set of qualities.

Nevertheless, similarities between players do not necessarily make them incompatible. Koné could still provide valuable depth and tactical flexibility, depending on how Mourinho intends to structure his midfield.

Kees Smit is another player attracting attention within Real Madrid, with the club’s technical staff reportedly impressed by the Dutch midfielder.

Mourinho, however, is said to believe Smit has a profile similar to Arda Güler. This could raise questions about whether the youngster would provide the specific qualities required to improve the team’s midfield balance.

Zubimendi has also emerged as a possible option, although the report makes clear that his inclusion on the list does not necessarily mean Real Madrid will pursue a transfer.

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