Real Madrid is finalizing the details for Xabi Alonso to become their new coach as soon as possible. The club aims for Alonso to be in charge for this summer’s Club World Cup.
According to sources close to him, Alonso would be willing to take over the position immediately, given the little time available for an adequate pre-season after the tournament, which ends a month before the start of the 2025-26 LaLiga season.
A key factor for the final agreement is the approval of Bayer Leverkusen, something that is not expected to be a problem, given the good relationship between both clubs.
Alonso announced last week his departure from Leverkusen, arguing that it was the right time to move on. He is expected to make public his next step shortly.
His arrival at the Bernabéu is agreed upon and is expected to be announced publicly soon. This Monday, it was confirmed that Carlo Ancelotti will be the new coach of Brazil.
Madrid’s 4-3 defeat to Barcelona in El Clásico on Sunday has left the team on the verge of losing the LaLiga title race, with a seven-point deficit and three matches remaining.
In addition, Madrid is close to confirming the early arrival of Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, so that the defender can travel to the United States for the Club World Cup.
Both clubs must agree on financial compensation, as the contract of the English international at Anfield expires on June 30. Liverpool has requested a fee of around 1 million euros.
With the right-back position covered, Madrid will also work to reinforce the central defense and the left-back.
The club considers that both positions need more quality and additional players, with the defense being the most vulnerable part of the team this season.
Among others, the names of Álvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen have been discussed, although their high prices, 60 and 50 million euros respectively, are a drawback and have led Madrid to consider other options.
Another highly-rated player is William Saliba. Madrid has been following the Arsenal player since his loan to Marseille in 2021.
However, his contract expires in 2027, and the high cost of a transfer would imply waiting to negotiate with Arsenal in a year, or waiting for him to become a free agent.
Additions to the center of the field are not ruled out to cover a key position that Madrid misses, after Toni Kroos’ retirement last summer.
It remains to be seen what will happen regarding the outputs.
Several players are expected to leave the team, which will also impact potential signings, although club sources do not foresee a major overhaul of the squad.
