The Spanish and European champions, renowned for their formidable midfield, are now focusing on bolstering their squad for future campaigns.

Martin Zubimendi, who has emerged as one of Europe's top midfielders, was nearly a Liverpool player last summer but decided against the move.

Recent reports from the English media suggested Arsenal were on the brink of securing his signature.

However, according to Fichajes, Real Madrid have not given up on the 25-year-old Real Sociedad star. The Spanish club are prepared to trigger Zubimendi's release clause, set at 70 million euros, as they view him as crucial to enhancing their midfield depth.

Real Sociedad, aware of the interest in Zubimendi, have stated they will only entertain an offer that meets this exact amount, showing no willingness to negotiate a lower fee.

In the meantime, Real Madrid have decided not to make any new signings in January, particularly after failing twice to lure Alexander-Arnold away from Liverpool.

The right-back, whose contract with the Reds ends this season, was a prime target for Los Blancos, but Liverpool's firm stance and Alexander-Arnold's own reluctance to move mid-season have led Madrid to look elsewhere.

Frustrated, Madrid have now reached out to Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich, who can operate both as a midfielder and a right-back and is also out of contract at the season's end.

Looking further ahead, Real Madrid have also shown interest in Bayer Leverkusen's Florian Wirtz, another young attacking midfielder with a bright future. However, the German club's demand of 120 million euros for Wirtz has prompted Madrid to consider AC Milan's Tijjani Reijnders as a more financially viable option.

Additionally, there's buzz around Newcastle's Sandro Tonali, with Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio indicating that the Italian international might depart St. James' Park at the end of the current season. Both Real Madrid and Manchester City have been mentioned as potential destinations for Tonali, who could add depth and versatility to either midfield.

Real Madrid's transfer strategy reflects a clear vision for squad evolution, focusing on securing talents that can sustain their competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions. As the transfer windows approach, all eyes will be on how these strategic moves unfold.

Real Madrid set sights on signing Martin Zubimendi