Real Madrid Transfer News: Buzz Surrounding Los Blancos' January Plans

The rumour mill is always buzzing when it comes to Real Madrid and their transfer plans, and as we slowly make our way toward the January window, things are no different.

Los Blancos are already being linked with a handful of players, while others are rumoured to be on their way out of the Spanish capital. There's never a dull moment if you're a Real fan, and January will once again be an exciting time for Los Blancos.

Here's the latest buzz surrounding the club's winter plans.

Raheem Sterling

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

Liverpool's Brendan Rodgers is certain young forward Raheem Sterling won't be leaving the Reds for Real, as reported by ESPN FC's Mike Whalley. The Northern Irishman said he was not surprised his exceptional play is resulting in transfer links, but he doesn't expect Sterling to make a move anytime soon:

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I think it shows that he's playing exceptionally well. You could probably link Raheem with every club in the world at the moment. He's a fantastic young talent.

I've nothing really to add to it. There's lots of speculation every day about players coming and going here at Liverpool.

I sit easy with it. He's a wonderful boy who is developing very well here. He and his representatives -- and people close to Raheem -- know how comfortable he is here.

I'm sure at some point in the future that whatever contract we're looking to work to with Raheem will be sorted. But he's still got three years left, and there's no rush from my perspective at the moment.

"

The 19-year-old still has three years left on his contract, but his low wages don't currently reflect both his output for the club and his obvious potential. There appears to be little progress being made on a new deal, potentially opening the door for a club like Real to take advantage.

It's no secret Los Blancos have both the financial resources and the willingness to hand the England international a massive deal, and while he would demand a hefty transfer fee, Real's history of spending heavily for young talent indicates that shouldn't be a problem, either.

Sterling has become one of England's brightest young talents during his time with Liverpool, and as a regular starter, it's hard to envision a scenario where he would spurn his current club.  

Similarly, Los Blancos already boast some of the world's finest attacking talent, limiting Sterling's abilities to gain a regular spot in the starting XI. The club will keep an eye on his contract situation, but at this time, Sterling appears unlikely to move.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Andres Kudacki/Associated Press

Manchester United fans can fly as many banners as they want (via BeIN Sports), but Cristiano Ronaldo remains adamant he sees his future playing out in the Spanish capital, per Sky Sports.

"They are all speculations about my future. My future is Madrid. I'm happy this season is going well and my future, I will not speak about, it does not make sense."

Ronaldo's comments won't put an end to the consistent stream of rumours linking him with a return to Old Trafford, but they should help fans of Real feel a little more comfortable.

The Portuguese superstar's scoring form has been superb the last few matches, once again highlighting that he remains one of the very best players in the world. Ronaldo will make any club better, and that certainly includes Madrid.

Los Blancos have no intention of selling their star player, and as long as he doesn't openly demand a transfer, there's little reason to believe an exit is imminent. The Red Devils will continue to pry, but for now, Ronaldo's future appears to be safe.

Isco

Tony Gutierrez/Associated Press

Midfielder Isco is being linked with a departure from the club following the arrival of James Rodriguez and a lack of consistent playing time, but Carlo Ancelotti confirmed he still sees the Spain international as a vital part of the team.

Isco is widely regarded as the future of the Spanish squad, and as shared by the club's official Twitter feed, Ancelotti has a similar plan for the youngster in Madrid:

The 22-year-old looked very capable in limited minutes last season, but an injury saw him tumbling down the squad's pecking order. Summer signing Rodriguez plays a very similar role on the pitch, opening the door for a potential exit of the former Malaga man.

His performance against Elche was phenomenal, however, and he appears to have a strong connection on the pitch with fellow fringe player Asier Illarramendi. Goal's Ben Hayward was impressed:

Given the heavy schedule Real face this season, Ancelotti will likely opt to rotate his midfielders as much as possible. Isco will have his chance to prove he indeed is the future of Los Blancos, and a strong run of performances should silence most transfer rumours over the course of the next few months.