Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso is reportedly pushing for the signing of Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo this summer, as the Spanish giants continue to rebuild their midfield for the future.
Kobbie Mainoo on Real Madrid’s radar as Xabi Alonso rebuilds squad
According to reports from Spain, Alonso is eager to bring in long-term replacements for recently retired Toni Kroos and sees Mainoo as a key candidate.
The 20-year-old England international has impressed with his composure, technical skill, and maturity in midfield, catching the attention of top European clubs.
Madrid are also monitoring Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, another young English midfielder who has had a breakout season in the Premier League.
Both Mainoo and Wharton are admired by Real Madrid’s coaching staff, but club president Florentino Perez remains hesitant to greenlight any immediate bids.
The Madrid recruitment team reportedly believes that while both players have potential, neither has yet proven themselves at the elite level consistently enough to warrant a major investment.
Despite this, the club will continue scouting them closely throughout the 2025/26 season.
Mainoo has been linked with a move away from Old Trafford earlier this year. In March, reports suggested he was considering rejecting a contract extension, and Manchester United were open to selling him for around £70 million.
However, more recent updates indicate that new manager Ruben Amorim sees Mainoo as an integral part of his plans and has no intention of letting him leave.
Tottenham Hotspur are also said to have enquired about the young midfielder, but United have made it clear that they want to keep him.
For now, Real Madrid will monitor Mainoo’s progress, with Alonso hopeful the club could eventually make a move if the opportunity arises.
However, a transfer this summer appears unlikely unless Manchester United change their stance.
