Real Madrid are planning some major changes to their full-back positions, and it could put the futures of Lucas Vazquez and Fran Garcia in doubt.
According to a recent report from SPORT, the club is keen to bring in Alphonso Davies and Trent Alexander-Arnold next summer and if successful, this could mean significant changes for Vazquez and Garcia, both of whom might find themselves surplus to requirements.
It is no secret that Real Madrid’s objective for the next transfer window is to strengthen both the right and left full-back positions. The plan is to sign Alexander-Arnold and Davies.
Both players would arrive on free transfers once their contracts expire at the end of the season. Should these deals be completed, Real Madrid would have an abundance of full-backs, with three options available on each side by the 2025-26 season.
Over-crowded defence
The competition for these positions could lead to some tough decisions and reports suggest that Carlo Ancelotti, who will likely provide a detailed assessment to club president Florentino Perez, may recommend parting ways with Vazquez and Garcia.
Vazquez’s contract is set to expire at the end of this season, and his future will depend largely on his performances over the coming months.
At 34 years old, the physical demands of playing as a full-back have started to take a toll on him. Though a valuable team player and third captain, his age and fitness could lead the club to look for younger alternatives.
Garcia, on the other hand, faces even tougher competition under Ancelotti. Despite being a homegrown talent, the left-back has struggled to secure a regular spot, with Ancelotti preferring Ferland Mendy for the left-back position.
Mendy’s solid defensive abilities have earned him the coach’s trust, even though he contributes little in attack. García has a contract until 2027, but if Davies joins Real Madrid, it is highly likely that Garcia will be sidelined.