Xabi Alonso (foto: Getty Images)
Xabi Alonso will reportedly leave Bayer Leverkusen at the end of the season and take over at Real Madrid, with a three-year contract already agreed.
Real Madrid are preparing for a major change ahead of the new season, and the long-anticipated arrival of Xabi Alonso as their new head coach appears to be complete.
According to Sky Germany, Alonso has already informed Bayer Leverkusen that he will leave at the end of the season. The decision is expected to be made public at a press conference later today, finally putting an end to the months of speculation surrounding his future.
Marca adds that Alonso has signed a three-year contract with Real Madrid. However, it's not yet confirmed exactly when he will officially start his tenure in the Spanish capital.
There have been growing signs over the past week that Carlo Ancelotti will step down as manager after the final El Clasico of the season. During the interim period, including the upcoming Club World Cup, the team is expected to be led by Santiago Solari.
Alonso, one of Europe's most promising young coaches, has impressed with his tactical acumen at Leverkusen and is seen as a natural fit for the Real Madrid bench, where he once starred as a player.