Will Xabi Alonso stay at Leverkusen or end up at Real Madrid?

After an extraordinary 2023/24 season, top clubs across Europe, including Liverpool and Bayern Munich, sought to secure the services of the talented coach.

Ultimately, however, Alonso decided to continue his project in Germany.

Speculation surrounding his future intensified following this announcement. Many believe that Real Madrid may have influenced his decision. Managing the club is Alonso's ultimate dream, but Carlo Ancelotti's ongoing tenure has postponed any potential move to the Spanish capital.

German newspaper Bild has suggested that Alonso might not see out his contract with Bayer Leverkusen, which runs until 2026.

There's a growing belief that he could depart as early as 2025, particularly if Ancelotti leaves Madrid.

According to the reports, Real Madrid is keen to recruit Alonso this summer, and Simon Rolfes, Leverkusen's sporting director, has reportedly been scouting for a suitable successor.

Among the potential candidates is Raul Gonzalez, the current manager of Real Madrid's Castilla side, who has long been on Rolfes' radar.

Alonso's decision is expected to crystallise in the spring. By then, Madrid's performance in various competitions will clarify Ancelotti's future. Given that Alonso has turned down lucrative offers from Bayern and Liverpool, it's clear he aspires to return to Spain and lead Los Blancos.

His past as a player at Madrid and his tactical acumen at Leverkusen have endeared him to fans, who view him as the ideal successor to Ancelotti.

Furthermore, if Alonso joins Madrid, he may not come alone. Florian Wirtz, the gifted German midfielder, has been linked with a move to the Spanish giants. However, Leverkusen may demand as much as €150 million for Wirtz, a hefty fee that could be negotiable.

Alonso's arrival at Madrid could significantly influence transfer dynamics, especially against competition from teams like Manchester City, who are also eyeing young talents like Jamal Musiala.

The bond between Alonso and Wirtz might give Madrid a competitive edge in this fierce transfer market.

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