Jurgen Klopp has reportedly laid down a set of uncompromising demands as he considers taking the helm at Real Madrid, should they decide to part ways with Xabi Alonso. According to sources, Klopp is adamant that Real Madrid must secure the signature of Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister if he is to succeed the former Liverpool man at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Klopp, who bade farewell to Liverpool at the conclusion of the 2023/24 season, has since taken up a role as Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull, overseeing several clubs including RB Leipzig and New York Red Bulls. Despite his relatively recent entry into that position, the charismatic German tactician has already been linked with a return to frontline management, with Real Madrid emerging as potential suitors.
The pressure has been mounting on Alonso following a series of underwhelming performances, intensified by a narrow defeat to Barcelona in the Spanish Super Cup final. Although Real Madrid managed to rally with a succession of victories, they still find themselves trailing four points behind their Catalan rivals in La Liga and languishing in seventh place during the Champions League group stage.
Spanish media outlets have speculated that Klopp is being eyed as a long-term replacement, contingency plans already being shaped in Madrid’s boardroom. However, it is understood that Klopp has stipulated several critical conditions before entertaining a move to the Spanish capital. Chief among these is the acquisition of Mac Allister, a player Klopp is reportedly eager to reunite with due to his faith in the midfielder’s ability to make an immediate impact.
Additionally, Klopp has asserted that signing a traditional centre-forward is pivotal, earmarking England captain Harry Kane as the ideal candidate for this role. On the other hand, Klopp has also insisted on parting ways with two players: Vinicius Junior, whom he questions regarding his defensive dedication and discipline, and Dani Ceballos, whose capabilities Klopp deems insufficient for Real Madrid’s lofty ambitions.
In what promises to be a transformative strategy for Los Blancos, Klopp’s demands encapsulate two key acquisitions and two notable departures, potentially heralding a new era at the club. For now, Alvaro Arbeloa assumes interim responsibilities following Alonso’s exit, with Real Madrid needing to consider Klopp’s terms with utmost seriousness if they wish to secure his services come season’s end.