Liverpool target Rodrygo 'pushing for Real Madrid exit' as Xabi Alonso confirms transfer plan | OneFootball

Arne Slot’s latest forward target may come off the market

Xabi Alonso hinted he wants Rodrygo to stay at Real Madrid despite reports that the player has asked his agent to explore a move away from the Bernabeu.

Liverpool remain interested despite already investing heavily in forwards this summer, and Rodrygo himself is thought to be open to the move.

Reports from The Athletic state he asked his agents to explore a move away from the Spanish capital this summer. He seems to be caught in two minds, though, with the report adding that he is ‘uncertain’ about leaving Spain.

And the Reds received a further knock in their pursuit this weekend as Rodrygo was reintegrated into Alonso’s matchday squad.

He had played a bit-part role at the Club World Cup, making just four appearances before Los Blancos were knocked out in the semi-finals. He was then an unused substitute as they opened their 2025-26 La Liga campaign with a 1-0 win over Osasuna last weekend.

But he made his return to the starting lineup for Saturday’s trip to Oviedo, impressing as he played 62 minutes but failed to score or assist in a 3-0 win.

Rodrygo combined well with Kylian Mbappe against Oviedo

AFP via Getty Images

Speaking at full-time, Alonso seemed to imply that Rodrygo was back in his plans for the season.

“He had a good game,” said the Spaniard. “In the first half, on that side, he linked up well with [Alvaro] Carreras, [Kylian] Mbappe sometimes dropped, and so did [Arda] Guler.”

He continued, saying Rodrygo helped Real break down Oviedo’s low block: "He had one-on-one situations and a few shots. Oviedo were quite deep and it was difficult to find the space, but I liked it.

“After last week, we needed everyone, and Rodrygo is one of them."

With a week left in the transfer window, Liverpool must act quickly if they are to add further reinforcements, and they could still go back in for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak, who has been known to play off the left. It is understood, too, that Arne Slot is keen to add depth at centre-back.