A new midfielder could be high on Xabi Alonso’s wish list when he finally returns to Real Madrid as manager. After Real Madrid won both La Liga and the Champions League last season, the Whites have performed worse this season. Out of the Champions League after losing quarter-finals to Arsenal, Cope del Ray lost the final to Barcelona who won La Liga on Thursday with two rounds to go.
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is leaving and will soon take over the national team of Barcelona and in comes Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso.
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Alonso’s arrival as the new manager at Madrid is likely to trigger a wave of new signings as part of a new era for the club.
- Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool is about to complete his long-awaited free transfer
- Dean Huijsen is also strongly linked to a transfer
These players will cover two important positions, but as a former midfielder, Alonso will also strengthen this area.
- Luka Modrić could end his time at the club if he chooses not to extend his contract
- The hole left by Toni Kroos’ exit in 2024 is still not filled
According to the Daily Mail, Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace is a player who has been frequently scouted by Real Madrid, partly because of similarities to Kroos. The 21-year-old is considered one of the biggest talents on the ball island, his mature and controlled performances in Crystal Palace’s midfield have aroused enthusiasm among Real Madrid’s scouts who have been following closely all year.
- His ability to control the pace of the game and play precise, line-breaking passes has earned him comparisons to Kroos
- National team boss Thomas Tuchel has praised Wharton’s confidence and willingness to develop
Transfer fee could reach record high
- Wharton is under contract with Palace until 2029
- The “Eagles” are not under pressure to sell and could ask for around £60 million
- Jude Bellingham, who played a key role in convincing Alexander-Arnold to come to Madrid, could be a factor
Real Madrid is not alone in the hunt. Liverpool, who have just won the Premier League, have put Adam Wharton, who is new to England’s international scene, high up on their summer lists.
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