Real Madrid Begin Major Summer Rebuild Under Xabi Alonso
Real Madrid have started a major rebuild under new manager Xabi Alonso this summer, investing heavily to bring in both young talents and experienced players as they look to remain competitive in Spain and Europe. The club’s summer spending has already surpassed £123 million, signaling clear ambition for the coming seasons. The most expensive signing so far is Dutch-born defender Dean Huijsen, who arrives from Bournemouth for £50 million on a five-year contract. Huijsen impressed in the Premier League last season with his strong defensive skills and composure on the ball, and Madrid hope he can become a key figure in the heart of their defense for years to come. Another important signing is Álvaro Carreras, the 22-year-old left-back who returns to Real Madrid from Benfica. Carreras, who spent time in Madrid’s academy between 2017 and 2020, has signed a six-year deal. His return brings a combination of familiarity with the club and valuable experience abroad. Meanwhile, Real Madrid have secured one of the most exciting young talents in world football, 17-year-old Argentine midfielder Franco Mastantuono from River Plate. Mastantuono, seen as a future star, joins after Real triggered his €45 million release clause. He is expected to strengthen Madrid’s midfield for both the present and the long term, adding creativity and flair to the squad.
In a surprising move, Madrid have also brought in England full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool. Alexander-Arnold, who spent 20 years at Liverpool, has signed for £10 million after Madrid agreed to pay a small fee to end his contract early. He will be included in the squad for the upcoming Club World Cup and is expected to bring his attacking instincts and precise crossing to the team. Young Moroccan striker Rachad Fettal, 20, joins from Almería to work with Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s B team. Fettal is considered a promising talent for the future, and the club hopes he will develop into a first-team player over the next few seasons.
Several players have also left Real Madrid this summer. Left-back Rafael Obrador moved to Benfica for £4.3 million after gaining experience on loan at Deportivo La Coruña last season. Forward Víctor Muñoz, 21, has joined Osasuna on a five-year deal, but Real retain a buyback clause for the next three seasons. Holding midfielder Chema Andrés has left for Stuttgart, while young defenders Youssef Enríquez and Jacobo Ramón move to Alavés and Como, respectively, giving them a chance to play regularly in top-flight or competitive European leagues. Álvaro Rodríguez, a Spanish-born forward eligible for Uruguay, has signed a four-year deal with newly promoted Elche, while 22-year-old Marvel has moved to Leganés in Spain’s Segunda Division. Veteran full-back Lucas Vázquez leaves after 400 appearances and five Champions League titles, joining Bayer Leverkusen to continue his career abroad.
One of the most notable departures this summer is the legendary midfielder Luka Modrić, who moves to Milan at the age of 39. Modrić has won six Champions League titles with Real Madrid and remains one of the most decorated players in the club’s history.
This summer’s activity reflects a clear strategy by Real Madrid to balance the squad with youth and experience. With talented youngsters like Mastantuono and Fettal arriving, alongside experienced figures such as Alexander-Arnold and Carreras, Madrid are preparing both for immediate success and long-term growth. Fans will be keen to see how this new-look team performs on the field. With the Club World Cup approaching and La Liga campaigns around the corner, expectations are high. This summer has already reshaped Real Madrid, and it seems clear that the club is setting up for both immediate success and a promising future under its new manager.
