Leverkusen start planning for Alonso’s exit with Real Madrid manager under consideration | OneFootball

According to a recent report from SPORT, it appears that Bayer Leverkusen will not let Xabi Alonso leave for Real Madrid for nothing, as they will expect something in return.

The German side is reportedly eyeing Alvaro Arbeloa, Real Madrid’s youth team coach, as a potential replacement for Alonso.

With Carlo Ancelotti’s departure all but confirmed, Real Madrid have set their sights on Alonso as the frontrunner for the managerial role.

Alonso’s ties to the club and his growing success at Leverkusen have made him a prime candidate. However, the situation has become more intriguing with Arbeloa’s name now being linked to Leverkusen as a potential successor to Alonso.

Arbeloa’s potential and Madrid’s plan

Arbeloa, a former Real Madrid player and current Castilla coach, is part of a shortlist of potential candidates being considered by Bayer Leverkusen, alongside Erik Ten Hag, Cesc Fabregas, and Xavi Hernandez.

While Ten Hag is said to be the favourite for the position, Arbeloa’s name has generated significant attention.

Alvaro Arbeloa is on Bayer Leverkusen’s radar. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

The Spaniard, who played alongside Alonso during their time at Madrid, has already made a positive impact with Real Madrid’s youth team.

Real Madrid will not let him leave

Despite Leverkusen’s interest, Real Madrid have no plans to part with Arbeloa anytime soon. The club sees him as an important part of their future and intends for him to take further steps within the club.

It is likely that Arbeloa will continue to coach Castilla next season, with a potential future promotion to the first team once Raul Gonzalez’s time comes to an end.

Real Madrid have high hopes for Arbeloa’s long-term future at the club, envisioning him one day taking the reins of the senior team.

However, the club also understands that Arbeloa’s path to that position requires patience. For now, he’s viewed as a club man, gradually gaining experience while waiting for his opportunity.

As for Alonso, the former midfielder continues to focus on his current responsibilities at Bayer Leverkusen. Despite the growing speculation surrounding his future, Alonso has insisted on staying calm and not rushing into decisions.