Real Madrid player demands showdown talks with Xabi Alonso on new manager's first official day in charge

A Real Madrid player wants showdown talks with Xabi Alonso ahead of potentially leaving the club in a stunning transfer.

Alonso officially began his reign as Real boss on Monday, having replaced Carlo Ancelotti last month.

He completed his first training session ahead of this month's Club World Cup, where they play Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, Mexican outfit Pachuca and Austrian club RB Salzburg in the group stage phase.

Alonso got to work at the club's training ground in Valdebebas with only five first-team players available, with some on international duty and others injured.

Real have already recruited ahead of travelling to the United States, snapping up Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool and Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth.

More incomings are expected ahead of the new season, with players set to leave, too.

Rodrygo in action for Real Madrid. Image: Getty

One player who could potentially depart Real is Rodrygo, who has been strongly linked with a move to Arsenal, with Chelsea also thought to be keeping tabs on his situation.

Mikel Arteta is hellbent on adding to his squad ahead of the 2025/26 term to close the gap on Liverpool, having finished behind them in last season's Premier League campaign.

And he has identified Rodrygo, who has been approached through intermediaries by some Premier League teams, according to The Athletic.

Arsenal are keeping an eye on him and feel he can add another dimension to their attack.

Per the report, Rodrygo's father and agent do not want to enter into negotiations until the star forward has spoken to Real and Alonso.

It is claimed the 24-year-old wants to 'feel important' and he 'feels most comfortable playing on the left or more centrally than on the right'.

If Rodrygo signed for Arsenal, then Arteta could deploy him in his favoured left-wing position, with Bukaya Saka on the right-wing.

The Brazilian international has been a crucial member of the team over the past three seasons, having played 50 games across all competitions since the 2022/23 season.

Last season, he scored 14 goals in 51 matches.