Real Madrid looking to reduce squad by toughening their message

Real Madrid are keen to thin out their first-team squad, and they're ready to make their message loud and clear to those no longer wanted.

While Los Blancos know they can't force any of the players to leave, they will make it clear that their best option is to continue their career elsewhere, like Luka Jovic, who is set to join Fiorentina.

Isco, Gareth Bale and Marcelo all saw their contracts expire on June 30 after a season in which all three players rarely saw the field. With seven players set to see their deals expire next summer, Real Madrid are hoping the aforementioned three serve as an example.

Dani Ceballos and Marco Asensio want regular playing time, something that may prove difficult at Madrid in 2022/23, while Mariano and Borja Mayoral have been told their services are no longer required.

Kroos, Nacho and Lunin are the other three who have contracts expiring, but the goalkeeper has already begun talks to renew his contract, and with the defender they hope to agree a new deal soon.

The German, as MARCA reported, refused to renew last May as he would prefer to wait and see his physical response and the role he plays before saying yes.

Too many players

Real Madrid have 27 first team players. They will be gradually incorporated into the squad from Friday July 8 onwards.

The accounts are clear and nobody can deny that there are too many players.

Furthermore, the club's theory is that an excess of players in the dressing room creates unrest and tension, which the club is trying to minimise.

Of those 27, there are two players who know they are going to leave. Kubo and Reinier are aware that, as they occupy a non-EU place, they are obliged to look for a new home. Benfica seem to be the Brazilian's option.

Not all of them will be able to leave (it is hoped that two or three will leave), but the aim is to reduce the size of the squad and balance the wage bill. The youth academy, with Juanmi Latasa at the head, will provide support.

Whether Mariano leaves or not is still in question and although the prospect of buying anyone new is closed, departures could force it open again after the arrivals of Tchouameni and Rudiger.