Florentino's concerns over Xabi Alonso revealed as Castilla land promising striker
Matteo Moretto drops bombshell about Real Madrid president's reservations with Xabi Alonso while confirming young Valladolid forward heading to Castilla
Transfer insider Matteo Moretto has shed light on Florentino Pérez’s previously undisclosed reservations about Xabi Alonso, while confirming a new striking talent is Madrid-bound.
Alonso wasn’t Flo’s cup of tea
In a rather eye-opening revelation during his regular appearance on Radio MARCA’s La Pizarra, Moretto claimed that Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez “wasn’t comfortable with Xabi Alonso’s profile” - both in terms of man-management and off-pitch matters including transfer targets.
According to Moretto, last summer Alonso requested a quality midfielder, with Martin Zubimendi mentioned as a possibility. This apparent disconnect in transfer philosophy adds another layer to understanding why Alonso hasn’t ended up in the Bernabéu dugout despite being heavily linked with the job.
Castilla reinforcement incoming
Moreover, Moretto confirmed Real Madrid are set to sign young Valladolid striker Adrián Arnu for their Castilla squad. The deal is structured as a loan with an option to buy, with the player expected to sign his contract imminently.
Atlético transfer plans
The transfer specialist also provided updates on Atlético Madrid’s winter window strategy following Conor Gallagher’s failed move:
- Actively pursuing a midfielder whose contract with his current club isn’t long-term
- Negotiating for left-wing reinforcement
- No specific names revealed yet as “there’s still much to negotiate”
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