Aurélien Tchouaméni's career at Real Madrid could end soon. Florentino Pérez is planning next season's squad and is clear that the French midfielder is not in his plans. Meanwhile, there is also the possibility of changing the coach, with Xabi Alonso in the wings, who has no intention of counting on the Frenchman.
If Xabi Alonso arrives at Real Madrid, he believes a new midfielder is needed, leaving Tchouaméni out of the equation. The favorite candidate for the position, according to the man from Tolosa, is none other than Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. He has a clause of 60 million euros (66 million dollars) and it seems Florentino Pérez has set to work to ensure he doesn't slip away.
At times, it seemed that Martín Zubimendi was very close to Arsenal, but this has recently changed. The Athletic has discovered that Real Madrid is not giving up on the midfielder and is in "increasingly intense" talks to sign him. It won't be easy, but Florentino Pérez is doing everything he can to make it happen.
Martín Zubimendi is Xabi Alonso's big request to Real Madrid
Xabi Alonso is clear that if he arrives at Real Madrid, changes are needed and he has pointed out one position: the midfielder. Tchouaméni doesn't fit into his scheme at all, and he considers the Spaniard the ideal pivot for his play style.
What Xabi Alonso is clear about is that if he arrives at Real Madrid, the main casualty will be Tchouaméni. He has no intention of counting on him and will request a high-level reinforcement for the position; not just anyone will do. The option of Martín Zubimendi seemed to be off the table at times, but Florentino has set to work to give it a U-turn.
There is still time ahead, and Real Madrid is taking this case very calmly, with the priority being to strengthen the weakened defensive line. Once there is a top-level central defender in the squad, the next step will be to finalize the arrival of Martín Zubimendi, whom Xabi Alonso wants. The plan is to sign him and sell Tchouaméni, thus being able to pay his clause.