Xabi Alonso’s first summer at the helm of Real Madrid has already been marked by decisive transfer moves as the club looks to bounce back from a trophyless 2024–25 season. Despite Carlo Ancelotti claiming the UEFA Super Cup and Intercontinental Cup before his departure to Brazil, the club fell short in all major competitions, including La Liga and the Champions League.
So far, Real Madrid’s confirmed arrivals include defender Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth for £50m, Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool for £8.3m, and Franco Mastantuono from River Plate in a £38.5m deal. The total outlay of £96.8m shows ambition as Alonso reshapes the team.
Three players have departed so far — Luka Modric, Lucas Vazquez, and Jesus Vallejo — all on free transfers. That leaves the club with no income from sales and a net spend of -£96.8m, highlighting the club’s commitment to squad reinforcement over balancing the books.
Further reinforcements could arrive before the transfer window closes on September 1, especially in key areas like left-back, central midfield, and center-forward. Rumors around Rodrygo’s future add another dimension to the club’s evolving transfer narrative.
Real Madrid’s business isn’t done yet. Alonso is said to be eyeing a marquee signing at left-back, while midfield options are being explored to complement the new additions. Departures may still occur as the club looks to finalize a squad capable of reclaiming silverware.
The Spanish giants benefited from FIFA’s special transfer registration period from June 1 to June 10 due to their Club World Cup participation. The regular summer window reopened on June 16 and runs until September 1.
This summer marks a new era under Alonso, with hopes high that he can restore Madrid’s dominance both domestically and in Europe. Whether more names will be added or players offloaded remains to be seen, but the tone has been set — Madrid are all in for 2025–26.