The strategic planning for the Real Madrid defense has hit an unexpected roadblock this January. As Florentino Pérez and Xabi Alonso work to rejuvenate the backline, news from Germany has confirmed that one of their primary targets is no longer available.
With the 2025/26 season reaching a critical juncture, the club was hoping to pair rising star Dean Huijsen with an elite, experienced partner.
However, Bayern Munich has moved decisively to secure their core, forcing the “Merengues” to pivot their scouting efforts immediately.
Bayern Munich Ends Real Madrid’s Pursuit of Upamecano
For months, the name of Dayot Upamecano was highlighted in the offices of Real Madrid as the ideal mentor for Dean Huijsen. The French international possessed the speed, physicality, and European experience that Xabi Alonso demands for his high-pressing system.
Unfortunately for the Spanish giants, Upamecano has officially chosen continuity over a move to La Liga. Reports from Munich confirm that the defender is in advanced talks to renew his contract, with a release clause set near €65 million that effectively takes him off the market for any rival club.
Finding the Ideal Partner for Dean Huijsen at Real Madrid
The search for a defensive anchor at Real Madrid is now more urgent than ever. Dean Huijsen is considered a “firm bet” for the future, but the coaching staff understands that a 20-year-old cannot lead the defense of the world’s most demanding club alone.
The loss of the Upamecano option means the recruitment team must look toward other alternatives, such as William Saliba or Castello Lukeba.
Whoever joins must be capable of organizing the line and providing the veteran leadership that has been missing during recent injury crises at the Bernabéu.
Strategic Reinvention at Real Madrid
Despite this setback, Real Madrid is known for its ability to reinvent itself when a primary transfer target slips away. The club is reportedly exploring a “Plan B” that involves a €160M budget generated from potential high-profile departures this summer.
While Bayern Munich has won this round of the transfer battle, the focus in Madrid remains on building a “defense of the decade.”
The board is expected to make an official move for a new center-back before the winter window closes to ensure Xabi Alonso has the tools necessary for the Champions League knockout stages.
Do you think Real Madrid should have moved faster for Upamecano, or is there a better defensive partner out there for Dean Huijsen?
