Florentino Pérez believes there's no more room to wait. After years of being very calculated with every decision, he's had enough. This year, Barça have been superior with fewer resources, and that's set off all the alarms at Bernabéu.
Florentino has made decisive choices to avoid repeating a year without major titles. The first has been to change the coach to start a new era. The chosen one is Xabi Alonso, who has already been officially announced by Real Madrid.
The Basque coach is already working on the first adjustments ahead of the Club World Cup. His priorities are very clear: he wants a more solid defense. That's why Florentino has already secured several important additions at the back.
Florentino Pérez speeds up Real Madrid signings
Huijsen was the first to arrive to strengthen the center of the defense. The signing of one of the best full-backs in the world has already been confirmed. But in the last few hours, a detail that nobody expected has emerged in the final agreement.
Florentino has decided to pay an extra 10 million euros to bring his arrival forward. The goal is to have him available before the start of the Club World Cup. This way, the new Real Madrid will arrive fully prepared for the major international event.
This is a firm bet by the president, who doesn't want improvisation. The player had a contract until June, but the agreement allows him to join the group immediately. This strengthens an area that has suffered a lot this season.
Trent Alexander-Arnold arrives early thanks to Florentino Pérez
Trent Alexander-Arnold, until now with Liverpool, arrives at Real Madrid earlier than expected. Florentino has reached an understanding with the English to close the deal ahead of time. The total operation has risen to an additional 10 million, paid without hesitation.
Thibaut Courtois is one of the most satisfied with this early arrival. This season, he's suffered a lot due to defensive weakness on the flanks. With Trent at right-back, the Belgian will have a top-level reinforcement.
The Englishman combines offensive ability with defensive commitment. Xabi Alonso wants to build his new project from the back, and this signing is key. Madrid are already thinking of the Club World Cup as a total priority.
Real Madrid want to avoid recent mistakes in the Club World Cup
Florentino doesn't want Courtois to experience the same feeling of lack of protection again. With this move, he sends a message of ambition and seriousness. Doubts are over: the new Madrid mean business.
Moreover, it's expected that Trent will be able to quickly integrate into Xabi Alonso's system. His experience in big matches makes him a very valuable piece. The coaching staff trust he'll be at his best for the international debut.
The World Cup will be the first major challenge for the new Real Madrid. Florentino has done his part and has brought forward key moves. Now the ball is at Xabi Alonso and his team's feet.