Real Madrid reject THREE players for January transfer window with Spanish giants 'tired of auctions'

Real Madrid have reportedly rejected the opportunity to sign three high-profile players—Ibrahima Konaté, Dayot Upamecano, and Rúben Neves—ahead of the January transfer window. All three players have contracts expiring on June 30, 2026, meaning they could negotiate with foreign clubs from January 1, but Real Madrid have declined to pursue them despite being offered the chance.

The club has built a recent reputation for securing world-class talents on free transfers, leveraging their prestige to attract stars like Kylian Mbappé, David Alaba, and Antonio Rüdiger. However, according to reports from AS, Real Madrid are now "tired of auctions" and feel that some agents are trying to "take advantage" of their transfer policy by using links to the club to generate publicity or secure better contracts for their clients elsewhere.

Konaté (Liverpool) and Upamecano (Bayern Munich), both French center-backs, are entering the final six months of their contracts, but Real Madrid are not interested, partly due to Konaté's recent dip in form. Similarly, midfielder Rúben Neves, currently at Al Hilal, has been linked with a return to Europe but is not part of Real's plans. The club maintains a policy of "absolute silence" to avoid public negotiations and agent-led haggling.

While Real Madrid remain active in the free-agent market—with players like Marc Guéhi, Bernardo Silva, Dušan Vlahović, and Leon Goretzka potentially available in 2026—they are being selective. The report notes that not every player with an expiring contract is a target, and the club is cautious about being used as leverage in contract renewals, as was the case with Alphonso Davies at Bayern Munich.

With the January transfer window approaching, Real Madrid's rejection of Konaté, Upamecano, and Neves leaves their future plans open, focusing instead on strategic signings that fit their long-term vision rather than opportunistic deals.