Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid taking shape as 'preparations' begin

Tom Weber

Updated: 20 Sept 2024 17:46 BST
3 min read

Carlo Ancelotti, Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid — © IMAGO

Real Madrid are positioning themselves to make a move for Xabi Alonso, according to German media.

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The Bayer Leverkusen boss continues to make headlines. Though Alonso's incredible unbeaten domestic streak surprisingly came to an end against RB Leipzig prior to the international break, his men have once again enjoyed a very good start to the campaign.

Leverkusen have bounced back from their Leipzig disappointment with comfortable wins over Hoffenheim and Feyenoord in recent days. Mastermind Alonso, of course, continues to be a highly sought-after coach after leading the club to their first-ever Bundesliga title last term.

In the spring, the 42-year-old snubbed his former clubs Liverpool and Bayern Munich to remain in Leverkusen. However, his commitment to the club was for just this season.

The Basque tactician is still under contract until 2026, but the expectation is that he will depart in 2025.

Is Alonso Real Madrid-bound?

At least that is according to BILD, which asserts that Leverkusen director Simon Rolfes is working hard to prepare the club for radical changes next year.

Several star players are expected to depart Bayer 04 next year such as Jeremie Frimpong and Jonathan Tah, who have already been angling for transfers for two summer windows. Leverkusen's crown jewel, Florian Wirtz, will also have suitors as will the likes of Victor Boniface, Piero Hincapie and Edmond Tapsoba.

The German outlet asserts that Rolfes has a full squad worth of replacements lined up. Crucially, the transfer chief will also have to contend with the seemingly impending departure of Alonso.

Rolfes has a long list of potential successors because it is anticipated that Real Madrid will make a move for their former player next year. Carlo Ancelotti surprisingly extended his contract until 2026 last year, but it is thought that he will not see out his deal.

The Italian was initially slated to take over the Brazilian national team in the summer, but this ultimately didn't materialise. However, Real Madrid seemingly still plan to move on from their legendary coach next year.