Xabi Alonso is just days away from officially taking over as Real Madrid’s new head coach, but he’s already pushing hard for his first signings. However, the club’s hierarchy is urging caution and rejecting some of his early transfer requests.

Xabi Alonso wants a new-look Real Madrid squad for the 2025/26 season as he aims to bring the club back up to standard.Alonso has confirmed his exit from Bayer Leverkusen - with his contract expiring in June ahead of his anticipated return to Madrid - as Carlo Ancelotti takes on a fresh challenge with the Brazil national team.