Xabi Alonso not ready to let Gonzalo Garcia leave as Real Madrid expect avalanche of offers for young striker in January transfer window

Madrid went to the Club World Cup with Kylian Mbappe and Endrick carrying injuries. It proved to be a blessing in disguise for both the club and Gonzalo, as the 21-year-old started all six games, scored four goals, and produced one assist to finish as the tournament's top scorer. The club ended their search for a profile who could be a physical presence inside the box. Madrid rewarded Gonzalo with a new contract until 2030 and, by default, a promotion to the first team. 

His impact at the Club World Cup seems to have been forgotten quickly. The academy graduate has featured in just six of the 10 games Madrid have played, starting just once and racking up a meagre 101 minutes of game time. Mbappe's incredible form – which has seen him plunder 14 goals already – as well as Rodrygo's continuation has stymied his progress. 

Several clubs showcased interest in acquiring the rising star's services over the summer, including Premier League outfits. However, Gonzalo eventually stayed put and didn't entertain any offers. His lack of prominence in the ongoing season is set to attract interest from a lot of clubs in the January transfer window, according to a report from Marca. 

Endrick has marked his return from injury and is determined to fight for his spot in Madrid despite not having played a single game under Alonso yet. Marca reports that having to fight for minutes with the Brazilian teenager could be another factor which could prompt Gonzalo to seek minutes elsewhere. 

On the contrary, Serie A heavyweights Juventus are reportedly keeping tabs on Endrick ahead of a potential January swoop. Not just Juve, but the likes of Paris Saint-Germain, West Ham and Real Sociedad also setting their sights in coveted young striker.

Despite the high likelihood of offers coming Gonzalo's way in winter, manager Alonso doesn't want to lose a player he has blind faith in. The former Bayer Leverkusen coach sees Gonzalo as a crucial jigsaw of Madrid's rotational puzzle, and hence will not allow him to leave in January.