Real Madrid's formula to sign Mainoo: In England, they take it for granted

The last few days of the 2025 summer transfer window would have accelerated the execution of multiple deals across the European football elite. Although Real Madrid would have minimized its activity after signing Álvaro Carreras, Madrid's executives might have work to do.

Not only because of the hypothetical departure of Dani Ceballos to Olympique de Marseille, a deal that would be taking shape according to information published by Fabrizio Romano this very morning. Also because of the possible last-minute addition managed from the Premier League: Kobbie Mainoo.

The name of the Manchester United defensive midfielder has been a complete surprise in the catalog of rumors surrounding Real Madrid this summer. Nevertheless, the deal would not be so far from reality according to warnings from The Daily Mail. This English newspaper, through its head of sports, points out that the white club is seriously considering signing him.

From the Valdebebas offices, however, they would have shown themselves opposed to acquiring the services of Kobbie Mainoo permanently. Thus, the only way the Madrid player could join Santiago Bernabéu locker room is through a loan with no purchase obligation.

Short-term measure

The information handled by Mike Keegan places Madrid's executives as possible candidates for this signing, a formula that would fit with Real Madrid's plans for the summer of 2026. After all, the white club intends to bring backNico Paz, currently at Como 1907, starting from the 26/27 season.

The entire 25/26 campaign lies ahead, a competitive stage for which Xabi Alonso would have repeatedly requested the arrival of a creative midfielder with a clear defensive focus. Madrid's sporting management acknowledges this need for the first team, but it is impossible without having the necessary financial muscle for it.

The lack of departures from Santiago Bernabéu locker room, Xabi Alonso states, "I count on everyone", reduces the chances of intervening in the last four days of the 2025 summer transfer window. Real Madrid's transfer budget is practically exhausted after signing Trent Alexander-Arnold, Dean Huijsen, Álvaro Carreras, and Franco Mastantuono.

In this regard, the loan of Kobbie Mainoo and the "promotion" of Thiago Pitarch to the first team from Real Madrid Castilla are Real Madrid's solutions to this dilemma. It remains to be seen how Xabi Alonso will react to this possible deal that has emerged in the last days of the 2025 window, a loan intended to replace Dani Ceballos.