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.
SoftFootball understands that Real Madrid’s confirmed arrivals includes 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.
A prior report from SoftFootball revealed that Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is reportedly planning to bring Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie to the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, aiming to reunite with the Ecuadorian defender in a deal valued at around £34 million.
Even though Hincapie signed a contract extension in December 2024, Real Madrid are seriously considering triggering a move, especially with his release fee rumoured to be a manageable €40m (£34m).