Real Madrid's summer has been busy, but the club's ambitions are hitting a wall: LaLiga's registration rules cap the first-team squad at 25 players, and with 24 senior contracts already on the books, there's barely any room for the new faces the board and manager José Mourinho want to bring in. The solution? A series of departures—some permanent, some temporary—that will shape the squad for the season ahead.
Here's a look at six players who could be on their way out of the Santiago Bernabéu before the transfer window slams shut on September 1.
Ferland Mendy: injury woes cloud his future
The 31-year-old French left-back has had a nightmare 2025/26 campaign, managing just nine appearances due to persistent injuries. A recent tendon tear requiring surgery will keep him sidelined for the start of the new season, making an immediate sale difficult. While the coaching staff still rates his big-game performances, the club may opt to leave him unregistered for the first half of the season, hoping for a January exit.
Raúl Asencio: squeezed out by new signings
The 23-year-old academy product saw his path to the first team narrow after the arrival of Ibrahima Konaté. If another defender comes in, Asencio's role would be minimal. Real Madrid are open to permanent offers or loan deals, but his market value is complicated by legal proceedings scheduled for September over off-field misconduct allegations.
Eduardo Camavinga: value vs. fit
Premier League interest in the 23-year-old French midfielder has cooled in recent weeks, but his versatility and market value remain significant. After a few inconsistent seasons, Camavinga could fetch a decent fee if sold. Whether he stays depends on how Mourinho sees him fitting into the restructured midfield—a decision that could go either way.
Aurélien Tchouaméni: the most likely big-money exit
Selling Tchouaméni would be the quickest way to free up a registration slot and bring in serious cash. Manchester United are reportedly keen, and a deal could approach nine figures. But letting him go without a confirmed replacement in defensive midfield is a gamble the technical staff may not want to take.
Franco Mastantuono: loan to Fiorentina
The young Argentine attacker is set to join Fiorentina on loan, but his departure won't help with the registration numbers. Mastantuono was registered with Castilla (the reserve team) last season, wearing number 30, which allowed him to play for the senior side without occupying one of the 25 first-team slots. So his move is more about development than roster relief.
Endrick: fighting for minutes
The 20-year-old Brazilian forward returns from a loan at Lyon, eager for first-team action despite stiff competition up front. Real Madrid could technically register him with the reserves due to his age, but Endrick is adamant about keeping his senior status and the number 9 shirt. That stance has pushed the club to explore another loan, with Roma showing interest.
Squad restructuring ahead of deadline
Real Madrid's decisions in the coming days will define their season. Balancing the books, complying with LaLiga's rules, and keeping the squad competitive is a delicate act. The fates of these six players will determine the final roster—and possibly the club's chances in La Liga and Europe.
For more on how Real Madrid's transfer strategy is evolving, check out our analysis of their calculated moves for Rodri and Olise, and the World Cup's impact on the transfer market. And if you're curious about the new kit, we've got the details on the dark green away jersey.
