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Xabi Alonso reportedly wants midfield reinforcements at Real Madrid, raising speculation about Luka Modrić’s role as the veteran’s contract nears expiration.
As Xabi Alonso edges closer to becoming the next Real Madrid manager, speculation is growing over the fate of club legend Luka Modrić. Spanish media believe Alonso is already mapping out his squad for next season, focusing heavily on midfield reinforcements.
Reports claim Alonso has identified Martin Zubimendi and Florian Wirtz as priority targets. Zubimendi, currently at Real Sociedad, has a €60 million release clause, while Wirtz is one of Europe’s most sought-after talents, linked to Bayern Munich and Manchester City in addition to Madrid.
Also on Alonso’s wishlist is Jonathan Tah, the Bayer Leverkusen defender who could arrive on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer.
But with new faces potentially arriving, what does that mean for Modrić? The 38-year-old’s current deal expires at the end of the season, though reports suggest he’s extended until the Club World Cup to cover the tournament in the United States. Beyond that, his future remains uncertain.
Despite Modrić’s advancing age, Alonso reportedly holds him in high regard. Speaking about his former teammate in past interviews, Alonso praised him as “a phenomenon… like a queen in chess”, lauding his passing, dribbling, tactical intelligence, and leadership.
“You can clearly see when he’s on the pitch and when he’s not. He’s fundamental. He has everything: passing, dribbling, covering spaces, team play. There’s no aspect where he’s lacking.” Alonso said of Modrić.
That admiration could translate into a desire to keep Modrić at Madrid in a mentoring and transitional role, especially given the club’s reliance on experience in big games. Ultimately, however, club president Florentino Perez is expected to make the final decision, with further talks reportedly planned.
For now, Modrić’s future at the Bernabéu remains delicately balanced between sentiment, squad evolution, and Alonso’s ambitious vision for a younger midfield core.