Real Madrid eye shock move for Andoni Iraola to replace Carlo Ancelotti | OneFootball

Real Madrid are reportedly eyeing Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola to replace current boss Carlo Ancelotti, according to the Daily Mail.

Los Blancos’ underwhelming La Liga and Champions League defence has led to calls for Ancelotti to step down.

Iraola emerged as an option for Madrid after catching the eye at Rayo Vallecano, where his team played exciting football and punched well above their weight.

Bournemouth took a massive risk to bring him to the Vitality Stadium. He repaid that faith by leading the Cherries to their most-ever points tally in the English top flight.

They are now on course to secure European football for next term – a massive achievement for the small south coast club.

Bournemouth have defeated Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Newcastle United during their rise up the Premier League.

Iraola’s achievements have not gone unnoticed, with Madrid shortlisting him. Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso currently tops their target list.

However, Madrid know the Germans will put up a fight, meaning they may have to turn their attention elsewhere, putting Iraola under the spotlight.

Tottenham are also interested in Iraola, with current boss Ange Postecoglou under immense pressure following a diabolical season.

However, whether Iraola is ready to take such a leap remains to be seen. Managing big clubs comes with immense pressure, and patience is often in short supply.

Iraola remains focused on his current project at Bournemouth, but his future could take a dramatic turn this summer.