Real Madrid’s Summer Overhaul Under Xabi Alonso Sees Four Key Signings to Boost Title Hopes
Real Madrid’s Ambitious Rebuild Begins with Major New Signings
Under the stewardship of Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid have made a significant statement in the 2025 summer transfer window with the acquisition of four promising talents, marking their biggest spending spree since 2019. With a combined investment of approximately €181.2 million, Los Blancos are intent on reshaping their squad after a disappointing 2024-25 season that left them without major trophies and overshadowed by arch-rivals Barcelona.
The four confirmed signings are Álvaro Carreras from Benfica, Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, Franco Mastantuono from River Plate, and Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool. These additions are all under long-term contracts and represent a mix of defensive solidity and creative offensive prowess, tailored to Xabi Alonso’s vision for a refreshed, competitive Madrid side.
Profiles and Transfer Details of Real Madrid’s New Signings
Álvaro Carreras: Benfica’s Left-Back Dynamo for €50 Million
Álvaro Carreras, snapped up for €50 million, brings a dynamic left-back presence to Madrid’s defense with a contract running until 2031. Known for his blend of strong defensive skills and attacking support, Carreras was a standout performer at Benfica. Madrid’s investment suggests Alonso’s intent to reinforce the flank aggressively while maintaining defensive stability.
Dean Huijsen: Young Bournemouth Center-Back at €58 Million
At the heart of defense, Dean Huijsen arrives from Bournemouth on a five-year deal, costing the club €58 million. Huijsen showcased remarkable composure and aerial dominance in his last campaign, traits that Madrid is banking on to shore up the backline after the exit of seasoned veterans Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos.
Franco Mastantuono: River Plate’s Creative Midfield Maestro for €63.2 Million
Midfield creativity is vital for Alonso’s tactical plans, and Franco Mastantuono fits this role perfectly. Signed for approximately €63.2 million from River Plate, the attacking midfielder impressed with his vision, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability. His six-year contract beginning August 14 signals Madrid’s long-term commitment to rejuvenating their midfield engine.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: Experienced Right-Back from Liverpool at €10 Million
Trent Alexander-Arnold joins Madrid for €10 million on a six-year contract, bringing international experience and familiarity with top-level football. Although his 2024-25 season at Liverpool was mixed, his ability to contribute offensively from right-back fits Alonso’s blueprint for full-backs who can support attack and provide width.
Context: Why These Signings Matter for Real Madrid’s Future
These acquisitions come amid significant departures. Most notable is the exit of Luka Modrić, a club legend who leaves after 13 remarkable years, including six Champions League titles. Real Madrid’s failure to capture silverware last season, despite high-profile signings like Kylian Mbappé, emphasized the need for a tactical reset and quality reinforcements across multiple positions.
Alonso’s arrival from Bayer Leverkusen, where he guided the club to an unprecedented Bundesliga title, signals a fresh tactical approach. His preference for a blend of youthful energy and seasoned skill is evident in the new signings. Defensive reinforcement through Carreras and Huijsen, paired with creative spark from Mastantuono and Alexander-Arnold, aims to build a well-rounded team capable of challenging for La Liga and Champions League honors.
Market and Club Perspectives
Real Madrid’s summer outlay, around €181 million, highlights serious intent after balancing the books post-Modrić’s departure. Benfica capitalized well on Carreras’s rising market value, while Bournemouth’s sale of Huijsen provides financial flexibility amid a solid but unspectacular season. River Plate continues to foster and export talent like Mastantuono amid intense domestic competition.
Liverpool’s transitional phase and defensive struggles led to letting Alexander-Arnold depart, an experienced player who still carries substantial upside for Madrid. Meanwhile, the club halted pursuing other high-profile midfield targets such as Manchester City’s Rodri, citing valuation disagreements and confidence in current squad depth alongside new signings.
Looking Ahead: Real Madrid’s Path Under Xabi Alonso
This wave of investment and strategic recruitment reflects Alonso’s ambition to create a resilient squad, capable of contesting titles vigorously on all fronts. By fortifying both defensive and midfield sections, Madrid hopes to bounce back from a challenging campaign and restore their position atop European football. The long-term contracts indicate faith in these players’ ability to deliver sustained success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the new Real Madrid signings this summer under Xabi Alonso?
Real Madrid have signed Álvaro Carreras from Benfica, Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, Franco Mastantuono from River Plate, and Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool during the 2025 summer transfer window.
How much has Real Madrid spent on these new transfers?
The club has spent approximately €181.2 million on these four players, making it Real Madrid’s biggest transfer window expenditure since 2019.
Why did Luka Modrić leave Real Madrid?
Luka Modrić departed after 13 successful years, joining AC Milan following a prolific career at Madrid and as part of a squad rebuild under new coach Xabi Alonso.
What roles will the new signings play in Real Madrid’s squad?
Álvaro Carreras and Dean Huijsen will bolster the defense, Franco Mastantuono will add creativity and attacking impetus in midfield, while Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to reinforce the right-back position with experience and offensive support.
Is Real Madrid planning more signings after these transfers?
While Xabi Alonso expressed interest in further reinforcements, especially in midfield, the club’s hierarchy has been cautious due to market valuations, and no additional signings have been confirmed as of now.
Sources: beIN Sports, Goal.com, Football España, ESPN
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