At the time, Mendes was a promising talent at Sporting CP, and Real Madrid, along with other top clubs, identified him as a prime candidate to address their left-back needs.
However, the club prioritized financial stability, halting transfers and negotiating salary reductions, which stalled their pursuit of Mendes.
Since joining PSG in 2022, Mendes has established himself as one of the world’s best left-backs, contributing to PSG’s 2024/25 continental treble (Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and UEFA Champions League) and Portugal’s UEFA Nations League title.
His performances, including neutralizing high-profile wingers like Mohamed Salah, Bukayo Saka, and Lamine Yamal in key matches, have kept him on Real Madrid’s radar.
At Valdebebas, Mendes is highly rated for his impact at both club and international levels, with manager Xabi Alonso and the scouting team recognizing his fit for their system.
Despite this admiration, Real Madrid have made no concrete move for Mendes, who extended his contract with PSG until 2029 in February 2025.
The club’s focus remains on signing Benfica’s Alvaro Carreras, valued at €50 million, as their primary left-back target, with negotiations advancing post-Club World Cup.
The strained relationship between Real Madrid and PSG, exacerbated by the Kylian Mbappé transfer saga and differing views on the European Super League, makes a deal for Mendes highly unlikely.
Mendes’ €70 million market value and PSG’s reluctance to sell further complicate any potential transfer.
Mendes is set to face Real Madrid in the FIFA Club World Cup semifinal on July 9, 2025, at MetLife Stadium, offering him a chance to showcase his abilities against his admirers.
