Florentino Perez has promised to launch the biggest transfer bid in Real Madrid’s history if he is re-elected as president of the club on Sunday.
The 79-year-old said he would make an offer worth “about 150 million euros” (£130 million) for an unnamed player, describing the target as a midfielder capable of contributing in attack. He ruled out moves for Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane and Michel Olise, Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku, and also dismissed suggestions that Real Madrid would pursue Erling Haaland.
Perez made the pledge as he campaigns for another term at the helm of the Spanish club, where members will vote to decide the presidency. Nearly 100,000 members are eligible to participate in Sunday’s election.
Real Madrid is owned entirely by its members, who pay annual fees and elect the club’s president. Perez first won the presidency in 2000 and became known for introducing the club’s “Galacticos” strategy, bringing in high-profile stars including Luis Figo, David Beckham and Zinedine Zidane.
During his first spell in charge, Real Madrid won 2 La Liga titles and the UEFA Champions League before Perez resigned in 2006 following disappointing results. He returned unopposed in 2009 and has since secured 4 further terms without facing an election contest.
This year’s vote comes after Real Madrid ended the 2025-26 season without a major trophy for a second consecutive campaign. The club finished 8 points behind La Liga champions FC Barcelona.
Earlier in the season, Perez challenged critics of his leadership to stand against him. Renewable energy businessman Enrique Riquelme subsequently entered the race, ensuring Perez faces opposition for the first time in 20 years.
Speaking on Spanish television programme Horizonte, Perez revealed plans to pursue a major signing shortly after the election.
“I have some news for you,” he told Spanish TV show Horizonte.
“On Tuesday or so, I’m going to make an offer to a major Champions League club for a great player. It would be the largest transfer fee Real Madrid has ever paid in its history.”
Asked about the player’s identity and the size of the offer, Perez said:
“Olise is a great player but it’s not Olise.
“It’s not Doku either.
“We’re going to make a significant offer, at least around 150m.
“He needs to be a player from midfield who can go forward. And it’s not Haaland.
“The player is not from the Premier League. And the first thing we’ll do is talk to the club.
“It’s a signing meant to generate excitement because that’s what it’s all about, generating excitement.”
Perez also told supporters that his re-election would activate previously agreed deals involving manager Jose Mourinho, Inter Milan defender Denzel Dumfries and Liverpool defender Ibrahima Konate, whose contract is not expected to be renewed.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
