Xabi Alonso has made signing a new defensive midfielder a top priority for Real Madrid heading into 2026.
[AS reports] the Madrid boss has highlighted the lack of natural cover for Aurelien Tchouaméni, with Federico Valverde and Eduardo Camavinga not seen as ideal replacements.
Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton has emerged as Alonso’s dream target after impressing in the Premier League. The 21-year-old’s growing reputation means Palace are expected to demand a huge fee.
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Palace hope to secure Wharton on a new deal with a release clause, though Madrid view the cost as potentially too high.
If Wharton proves unattainable, Madrid are expected to re-sign 20-year-old Chema Andrés from Stuttgart. The Spaniard left for €3 million but has a €10 million buy-back clause Madrid could activate next summer.
Chema has compared his style to Rodri and Joshua Kimmich and could return alongside another former academy talent, Nico Paz.
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The Argentine midfielder, now at Como, turned down a €70 million offer from Tottenham as he awaits a Madrid comeback. Los Blancos can re-sign him for €9 million in 2026 before the clause rises to €10 million in 2027.
