Real Madrid target liked by Xabi Alonso in advanced talks to join Bayern Munich | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s summer transfer strategy has taken a heavy hit, as it has come to light through Mario Cortegana that Jonathan Tah is currently in advanced talks with Bayern Munich.

This move comes as a significant blow for Los Blancos, especially since Tah was seen as a key part of the club’s defensive revamp, and all the more appealing because he would have arrived for free.

According to Cortegana, though, Bayern Munich have surged ahead in negotiations, leaving Real Madrid trailing behind in what has now become a clear pattern of transfer setbacks.

In just a matter of days, Madrid have lost out not only on Tah but also on Martin Zubimendi, who is joining Arsenal, and Florian Wirtz, who has reportedly reached a verbal agreement to join Bayern as well.

A perfect signing lost

Tah, one of the standout figures in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga-winning season, had everything going for him in the eyes of Real Madrid.

Jonathan Tah is all set to join Bayern Munich. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

He fit into their tactical plans, brought experience and stability, and crucially, was available for free with his contract expiring in June. Madrid’s pursuit intensified as the Alonso saga began, knowing Tah was a defender their potential future manager admired deeply.

But Bayern acted faster and with more determination. The Bavarian giants had been laying the groundwork for months and accelerated negotiations as soon as Madrid’s interest became public.

Bayern Munich have surged ahead

In recent hours, Bayern’s executives have flooded the player’s entourage with calls, increasing their salary offer and presenting a long-term project that has clearly tempted Tah.

In fact, Bayern’s desire to wrap up the deal was so urgent that they reportedly approved the signing at board level even before receiving final clearance from the club’s financial department.

For Real Madrid, it is a frustrating scenario. While no deal is official yet, insiders suggest that Tah’s move to Bayern is 90% complete. The German international is said to be very close to making his decision, and all signs currently point to Munich.