Real Madrid will monitor Xabi Alonso ahead of next summer with the Bayer Leverkusen manager’s release clause to become active in 2025.
Alonso is set to turn down approaches from Liverpool and Bayern Munich in favour of remaining with Leverkusen for next season, having overseen a remarkable transformation of the German side.
After inheriting a team in the relegation places last season, Alonso led Leverkusen to European qualification before guiding the team to the top of the Bundesliga in 2023/24.
Die Schwarzroten, who are unbeaten across all competitions this season, are 10 points clear of defending champions Bayern Munich with eight games to go and closing in on a first-ever Bundesliga title this season.
Alonso’s achievements had made him the top target for the impending managerial vacancies at Liverpool and Bayern Munich, though the Spaniard will snub approaches in favour of continuing his work at the BayArena.
Alonso is focused on treble success this season, with Leverkusen also into the latter stages of the DFB-Pokal and Europa League, while he is involved in the planning for new signings ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Leverkusen will also aim to keep together their talented team, amid interest in several stars including Florian Wirtz, Victor Boniface and Jeremie Frimpong.
Alonso’s decision to remain with Leverkusen has opened the door for Real Madrid, according to Fabrizio Romano, who have been impressed with the early coaching career of their former midfielder.
Carlo Ancelotti signed a new deal with the club which will run until June 2026 in December, though Alonso is considering a leading option to replace the four-time Champions League winner when he eventually moves on. Ancelotti was linked with taking charge of the Brazil national team before re-committing his future to the Spanish side.
