Real Madrid managerial target attracting interest from top Premier League clubs – report | OneFootball

With Carlo Ancelotti’s contract at Real Madrid expiring at the end of the ongoing season, there has already been a lot of talk regarding his replacement.

There are several names being linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabeu to take over from the Italian tactician.

But, as things stand, it appears that Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso is the leading contender to replace Ancelotti as the manager of Real Madrid.

Real Madrid have competition in Alonso pursuit

Alonso, a former Real Madrid midfielder and a club legend, has done a brilliant job since becoming the manager of Bayer Leverkusen in October last year.

The former Spanish international took over the German team at a difficult time and led them to a top-half finish in the Bundesliga and the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa League last season.

Alonso’s good work has continued this season as well and has led to serious interest from Real Madrid, with reports suggesting that he has already been ‘chosen’ as the heir to Ancelotti.

However, as per AS (h/t Madrid Zone), Real Madrid are not the only club interested in Alonso as some ‘top’ Premier League teams have also set their sights on the Bayer Leverkusen boss.

There is no mention as to which club is actually interested in the Real Madrid managerial target, but it is claimed that top teams from England are following him.

Man in demand. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

What has Alonso said?

Given the growing speculations, Alonso was recently asked about his feelings about a possible move to Real Madrid next season.

But the Leverkusen boss played it down, saying that it is too early into the season to talk about rumours of his future and that he is focused on his job.

“Coach Madrid? It’s September, it’s early days. I’m staying focused. We have started the season well, we want all the players to be focused. That’s why I have to be the first,” he said.