Xabi Alonso hasn't stopped since he arrived on the bench. Xabi Alonso wants to build a competitive and solid group. His experience in the Club World Cup helped him identify some clear shortcomings.
Although he is satisfied with the offensive potential, he sees several additions as necessary. His priority is to strengthen the midfield, but that's not the only area that needs help. In defense, the coach has also pointed out an urgent need.
Defense also needs a more solid and prepared piece
Real Madrid needs a reliable reinforcement for the big matches of the season. Alonso is looking for someone who not only performs, but also raises the level of the group. In this context, a departure has taken place that makes this move easier.
Jacobo Ramón leaves while leaving a future option
Madrid keeps 50% of a future sale and a buyback option for three years. However, what matters is the space left to fill. Jacobo had barely had any opportunities, but his departure is strategic.
Now, with his departure confirmed, Xabi Alonso has a clear path to bring in the center-back he has requested so much. There are no longer any administrative or sporting obstacles preventing his arrival. The chosen one is very clear to everyone.
Konaté, the center-back who excites Xabi Alonso
Ibrahima Konaté is the coach's favorite defender. His name has been on the list for months, but now it has gained momentum. The Frenchman’s contract ends in 2026, and this could be the perfect opportunity to sign him.
Liverpool has already set a price: €50 million ($54.4 million) to let him leave. Real Madrid, meanwhile, has started negotiations by offering €30 million ($32.6 million). The difference isn't insurmountable, but a final effort is needed.
Florentino Pérez values the reports from the sporting department and could raise the offer. Everything suggests that the coming weeks will be key to closing the deal. Alonso doesn't want the operation to be delayed any longer than necessary.
Real Madrid wants to finalize the defense before August
Although there are other priorities, the center-back is one of the most urgent operations. Xabi doesn't want to wait until the last moment of the market. His idea is to have all the important signings in place for the start of the season.
Konaté has already shown interest in Xabi's sporting project. If the numbers match, his arrival could be announced very soon. It would be a strategic signing to strengthen the most vulnerable line from last season.
Xabi Alonso begins to leave his mark on the new project
Real Madrid is experiencing a period of renewal in every sense. New ideas, new faces, and decisions that set the course. Along that path, Jacobo Ramón's departure represents the first clear step.
Now, all eyes are on the next move from the sporting management. Xabi Alonso is clear about it: he wants Konaté as soon as possible. If everything goes as planned, he'll have him under his command in the coming weeks.