The Bayer Leverkusen manager has been mentioned as Carlo Ancelotti’s successor at Real Madrid. According to reports, Xabi Alonso is interested in signing a former Manchester United player as one of his first signings as Real Madrid manager.
Alonso, 43, has long been linked with Real Madrid and is likely to take over as manager from Carlo Ancelotti before the 2025/26 season in La Liga.
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Like most managers, he will make his mark on the team and can also strengthen “Los Blancos” by introducing several new faces.
Transfer news
Journalist Fabrizio Romano gave an update on Madrid’s transfer plans this summer on Monday:
“Real Madrid have decided to try to bring in a new centre-back this summer, a clear request from Xabi Alonso that has been accepted by the management,”
He added: “The club is also looking for a new left-back as part of their transfer strategy.”
Two players on the radar
Bournemouth’s Dutch-born Spanish international Dean Huijsen is strongly linked to Real Madrid. The Athletic’s David Ornstein reports that “Real Madrid have activated the buyout clause in Dean Huijsen’s contract and are in the process of finalizing a deal.”
According to The Mail, Real Madrid are also in talks over a transfer for former Manchester United left-back and current Benfica star Álvaro Carreras.
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Spanish outlet Relevo claim that Alonso has personally requested the signing, which could be completed this summer.
Carreras’ path back to Spain
Carreras, 22, moved from Real Madrid to United’s academy in 2020, but failed to establish himself at Old Trafford. After loan spells at Preston, Granada and Benfica, the transfer to the Lisbon club became permanent in 2024.
The Spaniard, who is under contract with Benfica until the summer of 2029, has four goals and five assists this season and has Champions League experience.
As the MEN reports, United have a £15 million repurchase clause in Carreras’ contract. Other clubs will have to pay around £42.1 million to trigger his release clause.
On a move to Madrid, he will compete with Ferland Mendy and David Alaba for the place at left-back.
