Xabi Alonso’s influence could lead Bayer Leverkusen captain to Real Madrid | OneFootball

According to a fresh report from The Athletic, Real Madrid’s chances of landing Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah could receive a significant boost if Xabi Alonso is named the next manager of Los Blancos.

The Leverkusen boss, who has enjoyed a stellar tenure in Germany, remains a serious candidate to take over from Carlo Ancelotti, especially if the Italian follows through with his expected move to manage Brazil.

Amidst this, Real Madrid are also preparing to reshuffle their central defence after a string of setbacks. Eder Militao has endured two serious ACL injuries, while Antonio Rudiger recently underwent surgery.

Add to that the likely departure of David Alaba, whose persistent fitness issues and hefty wages have reportedly prompted the club to consider moving him on, and the need for reinforcements becomes all the more pressing.

Tah fits the bill for Real Madrid

In this context, Tah has re-emerged as a viable and increasingly attractive option.

Real Madrid could sign Jonathan Tah. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

The outlet mentions that while Madrid turned down the chance to sign him when he was first offered earlier in the season, after having also discussed terms with Barcelona, his situation has changed significantly.

Tah is out of contract in June and has made it clear he will not renew with Bayer Leverkusen, effectively making him a free agent.

The real twist, however, is the Alonso factor. Tah has thrived under the Spaniard’s guidance in Leverkusen’s title-winning campaign, and the connection between the two could play a crucial role.

If Alonso does take the reins at the Santiago Bernabeu, he is expected to push for the signing of key players he trusts, and Tah is one of them.

Still, the race is far from straightforward. Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and Manchester United are all keeping tabs on the German international. But Real Madrid could gain a major edge through Alonso’s potential appointment.

With financial concerns around Alaba and lingering doubts over Militao’s and Rudiger’s long-term reliability, Tah would offer Madrid a more stable and cost-effective alternative in defence.