At just 18, Diego Aguado stands on the cusp of a major milestone. In a week's time, he will board a plane with Real Madrid as they head to the Club World Cup.
This won’t be his first taste of senior action, last season, under Carlo Ancelotti’s guidance, he made his debut in the Copa del Rey, but his inclusion in the squad signals the faith that Real Madrid’s coaches and directors have in his potential.
Aguado, versatile enough to play as a centre-back or right-back, has been turning heads across Europe with his performances. Borussia Dortmund have tabled a six-million-euro bid for the academy product, who signed a new contract with Real Madrid in April, tying him to the club until June 2029.
“We’ve had interest from several clubs, but our focus is on Diego’s development with the first team,” a Real Madrid source said, reflecting the club’s strategy of securing their young talents with long-term deals and high release clauses to fend off suitors.
This approach is standard at Valdebebas, where Real Madrid have built a fortress around their brightest prospects. Another youngster, Fortea, has followed a similar path, signing a new deal and earning a spot in the Club World Cup squad.
The club’s philosophy is clear: nurture talent, protect their value, and keep options open for the future. Players like Alejandro Jimenez, Nicolas Paz, Sergio Arribas, and Rafael Marin have been sold with clauses ensuring Real Madrid retain influence over their careers. “We don’t give players away,” a club insider said. “We sell smart and keep a pathway for their return.”
Dortmund’s interest, represented by Aguado’s agent Juanma Lopez, has been noted, but Real Madrid have made it clear their priority is his involvement in the Club World Cup. “There’s no rush to decide his future,” the club said, indicating talks will resume after the tournament.
Dortmund aren’t alone, an unnamed Serie A club have also enquired about the defender, who was due to represent Spain at the Under-19 European Championship but was excused by the Spanish Football Federation to join Real Madrid in the United States.
Real Madrid’s academy has been a goldmine in recent years, generating millions in transfer fees while producing players capable of stepping up to the first team. The Castilla side, for instance, celebrated 13 titles last season, a testament to the factory’s strength.
Even players like Alejandro Jimenez, who had minimal minutes with Castilla, have commanded significant fees. Aguado’s rise is the latest chapter in this success story, though his immediate future remains with Real Madrid as they prepare for the Club World Cup.
However, no new developments beyond Dortmund’s bid and the Serie A interest have surfaced, aligning with the club’s focus on his tournament preparations.
