Xabi Alonso Plans Real Madrid Squad Overhaul Amid Transfer Talks

Real Madrid, under manager Xabi Alonso, is undergoing a significant transition following a disappointing 0-4 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup. The club is actively targeting reinforcements, including Liverpool's Ibrahima Konate in a potential swap deal involving forward Rodrygo, who is also linked with Arsenal and other top clubs amid uncertainty over his future. Alonso is prioritizing strengthening the defense with signings like Alvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen, while also seeking a new midfield organizer to fill the void left by Toni Kroos, with Angelo Stiller reportedly topping the list. Additionally, Alonso is optimistic about the arrival of young winger Franco Mastantuono from River Plate, whom he views as a potentially transformative player for Real Madrid. Despite Rodrygo's limited playing time and speculation about his departure, Alonso has stated that decisions regarding his future remain technical and no final decisions have been made. Meanwhile, midfielder Dani Ceballos faces uncertainty due to limited involvement under Alonso, though Real Madrid may retain him as a rotation option amid a changing midfield landscape.