Florentino Pérez reveals Real Madrid's plans: Nico Paz and two more signings

Florentino Pérez is living his final years as Real Madrid's top executive. After many years in the presidency, rumors pointing to his retirement are growing stronger. At 78 years old, the daily demands of the white club are so high that nobody rules out a change in the short term.

However, before leaving, Florentino wants to leave behind a consolidated sporting project, balanced and with a long future ahead. The process has already started with Xabi Alonso's arrival on the bench and with several moves designed to rejuvenate the squad. But the president wants more, and the focus is already on the summer of 2026.

Florentino Pérez designs the Madrid of 2026 with Nico Paz in the squad

For next season, Florentino Pérez is very clear about which positions to cover in Real Madrid. First, Nico Paz's return to the Bernabéu seems like a sporting obligation. The Argentine is excelling at Como and his growth has been so evident that the club believes that he's already ready to compete for a starting spot at the Bernabéu.

The numbers explain why Real Madrid considers him a priority piece. Nico Paz already has 6 goals and 6 assists this year, with real impact on the attacking play and remarkable consistency. That's why, in Valdebebas they are considering his return for the €10 million set by his buy-back clause, a manageable figure to recover a homegrown talent.

A center-back will accompany Nico Paz

Beyond Nico Paz, Florentino Pérez wants to strengthen the heart of the defense. Real Madrid is looking for a center-back with authority and potential, capable of competing from day one. The idea is clear: build a solid back line to support Xabi Alonso's project over the coming years.

Very different profiles appear on that list. Marc Guéhi is appealing because of his reliability in duels and his leadership in the open field. Schlotterbeck fits because of his ball-playing ability and his desired left-footed profile, while Jérémy Jacquet is a more strategic market option, with room to grow and a controlled cost.

In addition, in recent hours the name of Jacobo Ramón has also appeared as a possible return alongside Nico Paz. The chosen one is not clear yet, but what is evident is that Real Madrid will strengthen its back line in the summer.

Florentino Pérez also wants a holding midfielder

The third major decision points to the midfield. Real Madrid needs a holding midfielder who will guarantee order, clean distribution, and a competitive tempo in big matches. Florentino Pérez wants a signing for the present, but above all for the future, to support the squad for a decade.

Names such as Adam Wharton appear there, a modern and physical profile who controls the base of play. But the one who is making the most noise in the reports is Kees Smit, who is considered one of the most interesting young midfielders in Europe. Technique, personality, and vision, exactly what the club is looking for to shape its next great engine room.

The Dutch midfielder from AZ, who has already been compared to such prominent figures as Pedri, is very much liked by Florentino Pérez. In addition, Kees Smit himself has stated that the next step in his career involves leaving his home country. The Bernabéu is waiting for him with open arms.