Xabi Alonso has arrived at Real Madrid with a very clear goal: to win everything from the very first season. In Germany, he already showed his ability to compete at the highest level. He managed to lead Leverkusen to win the Bundesliga for the first time in its history.
Now, the challenge is huge: to keep Madrid among the giants of Europe. For that, Xabi knows he needs a strong and complete squad. That's why he has started to design a very ambitious transfer market.
Xabi Alonso has already added four reinforcements in this market
So far, Real Madrid has brought in several interesting names. Talents like Huijsen, Carreras, Mastantuono, and Alexander-Arnold have arrived. But Xabi Alonso believes there's still work to be done.
His initial idea was to strengthen the midfield with a playmaker profile. Names like Vitinha, Rodri, Mac Allister, or Barella were considered. However, the board isn't convinced of that need.
Xabi Alonso changes his priority and now wants a defender
Florentino Pérez believes the midfield is covered. With Valverde, Tchouaméni, and Camavinga, the coach has enough variety and quality. So the arrival of another midfielder has been ruled out.
Faced with this refusal, Xabi Alonso hasn't given up. He has decided to redirect his request and focus on strengthening another key area: the defense.
Konaté, Xabi Alonso's new target to strengthen Real Madrid
The Basque coach has now requested a center-back with experience and potential. He has put a very specific name on the table: Ibrahima Konaté. The French defender's contract with Liverpool ends next summer.
That means he could arrive for free if they wait a few more months. But Xabi Alonso doesn't want delays and is asking for his immediate signing.
Real Madrid is considering his signing but hasn't made a final decision yet
Konaté's signing fits the coach's plans and Real Madrid's policy. Young, powerful, and with international experience, he is liked at all levels. In addition, the operation would be more affordable if completed this summer.
Liverpool knows that time is against it and could negotiate for a lower fee. That's why the board is studying the feasibility of the transfer.
Xabi Alonso believes Konaté can make a difference from day one
In such a demanding schedule, having reliable center-backs is key to success. Konaté has everything Xabi Alonso looks for in a defender. Good physique, speed, ball distribution, and a competitive character.
Moreover, his experience in the Premier League and Champions League gives him extra value. That's why the coach insists on finalizing his arrival as soon as possible.
Real Madrid has the final say on Konaté's arrival
Everything is now in Real Madrid's hands, which must decide in the coming weeks. If the operation is accelerated, Konaté could be presented this very summer.
If not, the club could wait until next season and secure his arrival at no cost. In any case, Xabi Alonso has already made his request: he wants Konaté as soon as possible.