Real Madrid Summer Departures: 39-Year-Old Superstar Likely to Leave, Three Key Transfer Targets Revealed

As April 12 approaches, a report from AS sheds light on Real Madrid's summer transfer strategy. With the contracts of key veterans Luka Modrić and Lucas Vázquez expiring soon, the club's plans for the future are beginning to take shape. The outlook is grim for these long-time servants, with the chances of them renewing their contracts looking slim. Additionally, Jesus Vallejo’s departure is confirmed, signaling an even more significant reshaping of the squad.

Real Madrid's approach to veteran players has long followed a familiar pattern: offer one-year contracts to players over the age of 30, a policy that has been particularly evident in recent seasons. As the contracts of Modrić and Vázquez both run out this summer, the situation remains delicate, and decisions must be made about their futures. But the most pressing question remains: will both players stay or go?

In this ever-evolving transfer landscape, Real Madrid’s plans for next season are becoming clearer, and fans are eagerly awaiting updates as the summer window approaches.

Modrić and Vázquez: A Sad Farewell Looms

For Luka Modrić, 2023-2024 could mark the end of an era at Real Madrid. The Croatian midfielder, who has been at the heart of the club’s success for over a decade, has one of the most distinguished careers in world football. However, September 2024 will see him turn 39, and while his performances still reflect a high level of ability, there’s an undeniable sense that time is catching up. Modrić’s contract runs out in June, and according to AS, the likelihood of an extension is increasingly unlikely, especially considering Real Madrid’s interest in the future. If the club moves forward with their plans to recruit a new defensive midfielder, it could signal the end of Modrić's tenure.

Although Modrić has continued to perform admirably, his age has prompted Real Madrid to prepare for the inevitable transition. The possible signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad is an indication of what’s to come. Zubimendi, a Spanish national team regular, has been targeted as a potential successor to Modrić in the heart of midfield. With a €60 million release clause and a highly developed skill set, Zubimendi could add more energy and youth to Madrid's midfield, alongside the already dynamic pairing of Toni Kroos and Federico Valverde.

The future of Modrić looks increasingly tied to Real Madrid’s pursuit of younger alternatives, and while he might still offer contributions in the short term, it seems inevitable that he could make his way out of the club, marking the end of his illustrious reign at Madrid.

As for Lucas Vázquez, another stalwart in Real Madrid’s recent history, his situation is far less ambiguous. The 32-year-old Spanish right-back has seen his minutes significantly reduced this season, especially with the emergence of Dani Carvajal and the impending signing of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool. Vázquez’s current contract also expires in June, and reports suggest that he is unlikely to be offered a renewal. With the potential arrival of Alexander-Arnold, who is widely regarded as one of the best right-backs in the world, Vázquez’s future at Real Madrid appears to be all but over.

It’s a tough pill to swallow for fans, who have grown accustomed to seeing Vázquez's energetic runs and professionalism on the pitch. However, in a business like football, tough decisions have to be made, and Real Madrid is prepared to move forward without him.

Vallejo’s Departure: The End of a Dream

Jesus Vallejo, the Spanish central defender, has been a fringe player at Real Madrid for years. While his potential was once highly regarded, Vallejo never truly found his place in Carlo Ancelotti’s plans. Now, as the end of his contract approaches, Vallejo is officially set to leave the club, with 100% confirmation that he will depart this summer.

The 28-year-old has struggled for consistent playing time, and Real Madrid had been looking to offload him for a while. Despite several opportunities for him to earn a regular spot in the first team, Vallejo has failed to secure a permanent role. His departure represents a freeing up of space within the squad, both in terms of wages and roster spots, for new recruits.

Given that Vallejo’s contract is expiring, Real Madrid’s next focus will be replacing him with someone who can add quality depth to the defense. There are several options under consideration, but the most notable one is Iñigo Martínez of Athletic Bilbao.

Real Madrid’s Transfer Targets: A Busy Summer Ahead

With the departures of Vázquez, Modrić, and Vallejo seemingly imminent, Real Madrid is setting its sights on several key signings to bolster the squad for the future. Three names have been consistently linked with the club in recent reports, all of whom could provide a significant upgrade and strengthen key areas of need.

Trent Alexander-Arnold: A Revolution at Right-Back

Perhaps the most exciting transfer news surrounding Real Madrid right now is the near-completion of the move for Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool. The English full-back, one of the most talented and creative defenders in Europe, is expected to join the Spanish giants in a deal that would significantly enhance Madrid’s options at right-back.

Alexander-Arnold’s ability to contribute to the attack with pinpoint crosses and set-pieces, as well as his leadership and defensive capabilities, makes him an ideal fit for Real Madrid. His addition would provide much-needed competition for Dani Carvajal, and could also give the team more tactical flexibility moving forward.

Iñigo Martínez: The Ideal Replacement for Vallejo

As Vallejo exits the club, Iñigo Martínez of Athletic Bilbao has emerged as a potential target for Real Madrid. The 32-year-old has been a consistent performer in La Liga and could provide an experienced, reliable presence in the center of defense. While Real Madrid already has David Alaba and Éder Militão, adding Martínez to the mix would give them an experienced option to rotate in and out of the starting lineup.

However, the €60 million release clause attached to Martínez is likely to be a sticking point, especially considering that Real Madrid could be seeking a younger option to fit into their long-term plans. Nonetheless, Martínez is an intriguing name to watch as the summer window progresses.

Martin Zubimendi: The Next Modrić?

As mentioned earlier, Martin Zubimendi has been one of the standout names linked with a move to Real Madrid this summer. The Real Sociedad midfielder is regarded as one of the top young talents in Spain, and his technical ability and vision make him an ideal candidate to step into Modrić’s shoes. Although his release clause is set at €60 million, Zubimendi represents a fantastic long-term investment, one that could secure Real Madrid’s midfield for years to come.

Real Madrid’s interest in Zubimendi reflects a clear shift toward building a younger, more dynamic midfield, replacing the aging stars of the past with fresh talent ready to make their mark.

The Road Ahead for Real Madrid

As Real Madrid prepares for a summer of transition, the club is focused on addressing key areas of need while maintaining its stature as one of the elite clubs in world football. The departures of Modrić, Vázquez, and Vallejo will open up spaces for new signings, and if the club can successfully recruit Alexander-Arnold, Martínez, and Zubimendi, they will have the potential to add much-needed depth and youth to the squad.

The club’s strategy to bring in high-quality, versatile players like Alexander-Arnold and Zubimendi is in line with their long-term vision for continued success both domestically and internationally. As always, the pressure will be on Florentino Pérez and Carlo Ancelotti to ensure the team remains competitive at the highest level.

While the departures of these beloved figures will undoubtedly be emotional for fans, it is clear that Real Madrid is looking to the future. If the transfers go according to plan, Real Madrid’s next generation could be just as thrilling and successful as the one that has dominated for the past decade.