Whilst the Sergio Ramos situation has dominated the headlines over the summer, Madrid have another potential problem on their hands with Pepe set to become a free agent as of January 1, 2016 when his current contract expires. He will then, under FFA legislation be in a position to negotiate freely with other football clubs. At the beginning of 2015, Real Madrid told the player of their intention to enter into negotiation regarding a two year extension deal. That negotiation has yet to take place and the possibility of Pepe leaving Madrid in the January window is a growing concern. His powerful headed goal against Manchester City (not dissimilar to that which he scored against Barcelona, on October 25, 2014 at the Santiago Bernabéu) was a reminder to the club’s sporting directors of his ongoing importance to the Madrid rear-guard.
The Ramos situation has had an indirect impact on the Portuguese player. Both players renewed their respective deal together in July, 2011. Florentino Pérez has signed 12 contract renewals from 15 with a time-frame of more than two years during his second period as club president. It could be argued that Madrid feel that with 22 year old Varane under contract through to 2020 renewing the Portuguese defenders deal is less pressing. During the 2014-15 season Ramos played for (3.545 minutes), Varane (3.428’) and Pepe (3.184’).