​Real Madrid’s squad overhaul is extending far beyond the transfer market. Alongside a wave of new signings, the Merengues are also working to secure the long-term futures of the players they see as the foundation of their next era.After saying goodbye to several veteran stars such as Luka Modric, Lucas Vazquez, David Alaba, and Dani Carvajal in recent years, the club has ushered in a new generation.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWith Jose Mourinho beginning a new chapter on the Madrid bench, the club’s objective is not only to strengthen the squad but also to lock down their key players with new contracts, reports El Debate.Indeed, Real Madrid are prioritising the contract renewals for four dressing room heavyweights whom they consider pillars of the current project. They are: Thibaut Courtois, Federico Valverde, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbapppe.One year renewal incoming. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)Courtois, whose current deal runs out next year, is expected to extend his stay until 2028, reflecting the club’s complete confidence in the Belgian goalkeeper despite recent injury concerns.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementReal Madrid also intend to begin negotiations with Bellingham, Valverde and Mbappe.All three still have several years remaining on their current deals, but the club’s policy is to avoid allowing key players to enter the final stages of their contracts before opening renewal talks.Bellingham’s performances at the World Cup have reinforced his importance, and Mourinho is expected to build much of his attacking system around the England international by deploying him in a more advanced role.Valverde remains equally indispensable. Despite his difficult year, Mourinho has no intention of losing the Uruguayan, whom he views as one of the team’s leaders both on and off the pitch.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMbappe could also receive an improved deal after establishing himself as the club’s leading figure since arriving in Madrid. The French forward is viewed as the face of the project for the coming years.Untouchables for Mourinho. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)Meanwhile, Brahim Diaz has already agreed to renew his contract until 2030. Although interest from other clubs remains strong, Real Madrid see him as an important squad player moving forward.Aurelien Tchouameni has also been rewarded with a new long-term contract, running for another five years and including improved financial terms.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementDespite attracting serious interest from Manchester United and several other European clubs, the French midfielder made it clear he had no intention of leaving.The one major contract situation still without a resolution is Vinicius Jr. Real Madrid consider the Brazilian one of their most important players and have already offered him what they view as their maximum salary package.However, negotiations have stalled after disagreements over additi