Real Madrid did not spend any money during the summer. Kylian Mbappe arrived on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, while the arrival of Endrick Felipe from Palmeiras had already been pre-arranged. In the end, it was a surprise that no one joined, considering that two important players in Nacho Fernandez and Toni Kroos had left.
The departure of Kroos in particular hurt Real Madrid, and they struggled without him during the first week of the season. A successor for him has not yet arrived, but it seems more certain than not that one will be sought when Luka Modric finally leaves.
It was reported this week that Real Madrid see Wirtz as the perfect successor to Modricwho is expected to leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season. The Bayern Leverkusen sensation could end up being a club-record signing, although Los Blancos would be more than capable of splashing him out if they deem it necessary.
Modric has tended to play more box-to-box during his career, while Wirtz is an attacking midfielder. In terms of playing styles, they are not particularly similar, although Real Madrid seem to believe that it doesn't matter.
Is Wirtz the right man for Real Madrid to sign next summer? It could be, but only if it means that Jude Bellingham or Federico Valverde occupy a deeper role from the 2025-26 season. Wirtz is at his best when he plays further forward, so he can't be limited to playing exactly like Modric.
In addition, Real Madrid could do for a more defensive option, which could also act as a way to replace Kroos a little. Rodri Hernandez is an obvious choice, and has been linked with Los Blancos in recent months. Also, his contract ends in 2027, so he could be nervous for Manchester City, although the fact that he has suffered a long-term knee injury makes him more of a risk.
Ultimately, it's up to Real Madrid's sporting department to decide if a more attacking midfielder is needed, when they already have someone like Jude Bellingham or Arda Guler who can play that role. Taking this into account, it might be wiser to look for a pivot, although Los Blancos have a lot of faith in Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga.
It remains to be seen how Real Madrid approaching next summer's transfer window. Given the obvious gaps in the first-team squad, he should be unusually busy.
