A crucial choice was taken by Xabi Alonso before his official arrival in the Real Madrid dugout. Ferland Mendy is not part of the Basque coach’s plans for the upcoming season, and Valdebebas is working to find a method to let him go during the summer transfer window. The French fullback does not match the coach’s desired profile for the new Merengue project, even with his recent contract renewal.
There is already a white club operation underway that may prove to be more complex than anticipated. Mendy’s market value has dropped as a result of his patchy play in recent years, coupled with injuries and some game volatility. Additionally, the fact that his contract is set to expire in 2027 makes a potential termination or low-cost departure much more difficult.
Xabi Alonso does not count on Ferland Mendy
In order to strengthen the left side with a player who more closely matches Alonso’s preferred style of play, Real Madrid wants to reduce the number of players in that position. In this regard, a number of names have come up on the agenda of the White Club. The cost of signing a player older than 28 has eliminated Alejandro Grimaldo, one of the more compelling choices because of his quality and experience.
However, Miguel Gutiérrez, who is currently at Girona, and Álvaro Carreras, who is with Benfica, stand out as the most promising contenders. The buyback clause could allow the first to be returned for a fair price, but the Portuguese club’s exorbitant demands are likely to make negotiations difficult for the latter. In any event, it appears like the left-back position will soon alter.