Real Madrid are reportedly unlikely to pursue another centre-back during the January transfer window, as manager Jose Mourinho believes the defenders currently available to him can provide sufficient depth for the remainder of the season.

According to a report by Madrid Universal on Thursday, October 29, 2026, the Spanish club has decided not to make defensive recruitment a priority after reviewing the fitness and recovery progress of its existing players.

Madrid have dealt with repeated injury problems in defence over recent seasons, at times leaving the coaching staff with very limited choices in central defence. The situation became particularly concerning after the latest international break, when Dean Huijsen and Antonio Rudiger were temporarily among the few senior centre-backs available.

Those difficulties prompted speculation that the club could enter the January market for reinforcements. Borussia Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck and Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni were among the players reportedly linked with a possible move to the Santiago Bernabeu.

However, Defensa Central reports that Mourinho is satisfied with the quality within his current squad and does not believe an additional centre-back is necessary at this stage. The Portuguese manager has therefore not asked the club's hierarchy to pursue a defensive signing during the winter window.

The return of Eder Militao from injury has contributed significantly to the improvement in Madrid's options. The Brazilian's availability gives Mourinho another experienced defender to consider, while Ibrahima Konate and Huijsen are also expected to compete for regular starting roles.

Rudiger remains an important option because of his experience, while academy graduate Raul Asencio could provide further depth once he is available again.

Militao's recovery is particularly important to Madrid because of his influence on the team's defensive organisation. The Brazilian has endured several serious injuries in recent years, disrupting his progress and making it difficult for him to maintain consistent performances.

Nevertheless, the club reportedly continues to regard him as one of its most valuable defensive assets when fully fit. Mourinho is believed to have considerable confidence in the defender but intends to oversee his return carefully rather than expose him to excessive demands before he has regained full match fitness.

How Militao performs during the coming months could also affect Madrid's recruitment decisions ahead of next summer. A sustained return to form would strengthen the club's existing defensive structure, while further setbacks could lead to renewed interest in the transfer market.

For now, Madrid appear prepared to work with their current personnel. Militao's recovery, alongside the contributions of Huijsen, Konate and the other available defenders, is expected to determine how Mourinho manages the back line for the rest of the campaign.