Better than Pedri and Rodri… Xabi Alonso wants to sign this legendary player and bring him to Real Madrid at any cost.

A new era is dawning at the Santiago Bernabéu. Following his official departure from Bayer Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso is now fully committed to his next mission—leading Real Madrid into the future. And he’s not wasting any time.

The Spanish tactician will take over the managerial reins after the Club World Cup in the United States, but behind the scenes, his planning for the 2025–26 season is already in full swing. Alonso’s vision? Restore Madrid’s identity, intensify their midfield dominance, and reclaim their spot at the top of world football.

Working hand-in-hand with president Florentino Pérez, CEO José Ángel Sánchez, and sporting director Juni Calafat, Alonso is shaping a recruitment plan that could change the club’s future for years to come. Injuries and inconsistency last season highlighted the urgent need for depth and elite quality—particularly in midfield.

While names like Dean Huyssen, Álvaro Carreras, and even Trent Alexander-Arnold are among the first players expected to arrive in Alonso’s project, it’s a different name causing the biggest stir in the corridors of power at Valdebebas.

Florian Wirtz.

Yes, the same Wirtz who lit up the Bundesliga under Alonso’s guidance and played a central role in Leverkusen’s incredible domestic campaign. Alonso isn’t just interested—he’s obsessed. And he believes Wirtz is better than both Pedri and Rodri.

The Spanish manager has not hidden his admiration for the German sensation. In fact, during a recent press conference, he hinted: “I can’t promise I won’t bring some Leverkusen players to my next team.” Everyone knew what he meant. It was Wirtz or no one.

Sources close to the club confirm that Alonso has personally recommended Wirtz to Real Madrid’s board. He considers the 21-year-old midfielder the perfect fit for the team’s tactical evolution. Quick, intelligent, and creative under pressure, Wirtz offers qualities Alonso feels are missing in the current lineup.

Alonso went as far as to say, “He’s the best in his position. He offers exactly what we’re missing… He could win the Ballon d’Or.” Those words weren’t just praise—they were a direct plea to the board to make the move happen.

And it seems the message has been received.

Florentino Pérez and José Ángel Sánchez are both fully aware of the manager’s wishes. But the road to Wirtz’s signature is anything but simple. Bayern Munich are also in the hunt, and they are reportedly prepared to match or even outbid Madrid in the race to sign him.

Despite the financial tug-of-war, Real Madrid is optimistic. The club is already working on creative financial solutions—ranging from sponsorship deals to player sales—that could unlock the funds needed to sign Wirtz without disrupting other priorities.

What Madrid does have is an ace up their sleeve: Xabi Alonso himself.

The relationship between Alonso and Wirtz is close, and that bond could prove decisive. Alonso is already in informal contact with the player and his entourage, outlining his vision for the team and the role Wirtz would play in it.

Wirtz, who has previously hinted at his admiration for Spanish football, is said to be intrigued by the prospect of working with Alonso again—especially on the grandest stage of all, wearing the famous white of Madrid.

Still, no decision has been made, and the weeks ahead will be critical. With Bayern also pushing aggressively, Real Madrid must act swiftly or risk losing one of the most promising midfielders of this generation.

Behind closed doors, Madrid’s technical staff are already discussing how to accommodate Wirtz in the squad. Some believe he could operate as a hybrid attacking midfielder, providing the creative spark between Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga.

Others see him as the successor to Luka Modrić—a future legend in the making.

Regardless of where he plays, the consensus is clear: signing Florian Wirtz would be a game-changer for Real Madrid. Not just for next season, but for the next decade.

As the summer window approaches, the pressure is on Florentino Pérez to deliver. And with Alonso’s backing and Wirtz’s rising profile, all eyes are on Madrid to make the next move.