Real Madrid’s January priority revealed as Jose Mourinho’s side hit by injuries

According to a report by FootballTransfers on Saturday, October 10, 2026, Real Madrid are expected to make signing a new central defender a priority during the January transfer window as Jose Mourinho’s team continue to struggle with an increasing number of defensive injuries.

FootballTransfers reports that the Spanish giants may have to return to the transfer market after failing to recruit an additional centre-back during the summer transfer window.

Real Madrid broke their transfer record to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig, but Mourinho had also hoped to strengthen his defensive department before the start of the new season.

However, the club failed to reach an agreement for another central defender, leaving them with limited options in a position that had already troubled them during the previous campaign.

Their defensive situation has become increasingly worrying ahead of Saturday’s La Liga clash against Villarreal, with several defenders unavailable for selection.

Dean Huijsen is suspended, while Raul Asencio and Eder Militao are out with injuries. As a result, Ibrahima Konate and Antonio Rudiger are the only available senior centre-backs included in the squad for the encounter.

Konate’s fitness has also raised concerns after he left the France national team camp prematurely because of an injury.

With Real Madrid looking to reduce Barcelona’s six-point advantage at the top of the La Liga table, Mourinho will be keen to strengthen his defensive options before the second half of the season begins.

Several defenders have already been identified as possible targets ahead of the January transfer window.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk is among the players reportedly linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu. The Dutch defender could become an appealing option if his contract with Liverpool expires next summer.

However, a move in January appears unlikely, forcing Real Madrid to consider other alternatives as they seek to reinforce their defence midway through the season.

Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah is another player reportedly on the club’s radar. The England international can play as both a centre-back and a right-back, giving Mourinho greater flexibility in his defensive setup.

Nevertheless, securing his services during the middle of the season could be challenging, especially with reports suggesting that Liverpool have a buy-back clause involving the defender.

Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite has also emerged as a potential option as Real Madrid continue to examine possible solutions to their defensive difficulties.

Although the Spanish club have not yet identified their preferred target publicly, the growing injury crisis has increased the urgency of their search for defensive reinforcements.

Real Madrid will hope their remaining defenders avoid further injuries as they navigate an important stage of the title race. However, additional setbacks could make signing a new centre-back in January increasingly necessary.

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