Real Madrid to battle Atletico for Cristian Romero as incoming boss Xabi Alonso wants Tottenham star to join Trent Alexander-Arnold as part of new-look defence

Atletico have been linked with a move for Romero for some time now but look set to face competition from city rivals Real. According to The Sun, incoming boss Xabi Alonso is a "big fan" of Romero and wants him to form part of a new-look backline at the Santiago Bernabeu. It's hoped Romero will join Trent Alexander-Arnold in the starting XI, with the defender set to arrive in the summer after leaving Liverpool on a free transfer.

Alonso is expected to take over at Madrid following Ancelotti's departure at the end of the season. The Italian is has been confirmed as the new manager of the Brazil national team and will be succeeded by the former Madrid and Liverpool midfielder. Alonso will be expected to deliver instantly at the Santiago Bernabeu, particularly with Madrid looking set to end this season empty-handed after their Clasico defeat to Barcelona left Los Blancos seven points off top spot with only three games left to play.

Real Madrid's defeat to Barcelona only highlighted the team's need to strengthen defensively. Barcelona have now scored 16 goals in their four games versus Real Madrid this season in all competitions, a record for a team against the Spanish giants.

Real Madrid finish the season with games against Real Mallorca, Sevilla and Real Sociedad. Alonso is then expected to arrive as the club's new manager and can start planning for the 2025-26 season in the Spanish capital.