'I don't think Xabi Alonso would like me!' - Real Madrid target shuts down rumours of summer transfer as he jokes about woeful display in front of ex-Bayer Leverkusen coach

The 20-year-old midfielder Larsson addressed rumours linking him with a summer move to Madrid. Speaking to the Swedish press, Larsson played down the speculation with humour, saying the Madrid's new coach may have a negative image of him after he was substituted off at half-time as Frankfurt were demolished 5-0 by Bayer Leverkusen.

Larsson is regarded as one of the most promising young midfielders in Europe and has been on the radar of top clubs, including Madrid. However, with Frankfurt qualifying for next season’s Champions League, the young midfielder appears focused on staying and continuing his development in the Bundesliga.

After being asked about the mounting transfer speculation linking him with elite clubs like Madrid, Larsson reflected on how such rumours have followed him for years: "I feel like these rumours of joining a big club have followed me since I was 16 or 17 and started to stand out. It's a bit similar now, although it's about bigger clubs and bigger things. I approach it a bit the same way I did before.

"I've read things and there will continue to be speculation, but I'm a person who never stresses about anything. Now we have the Champions League next season with Frankfurt. It will be a lot of fun."

When asked specifically about Madrid and manager Alonso, Larsson couldn’t help but joke, recalling a tough Bundesliga clash earlier in the season: "In one of the games we lost 5-0. I was substituted at half-time, so I don't think Alonso would like me."

While rumours will persist, Larsson has suggested he is not entertaining a transfer just yet. With Frankfurt’s Champions League campaign on the horizon, the Swede’s future looks set.