Real Madrid is preparing for a major squad overhaul ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. With Xabi Alonso set to take over as head coach, the club is planning both high-profile signings and key returns. Among the names on the table is Enzo Fernández, a 24-year-old midfielder currently playing for Chelsea, who could be the next big addition to the white team’s midfield.

According to journalist Gustavo Méndez, Enzo Fernández and Real Madrid have already reached a verbal agreement for him to join the club next season. While nothing has been signed yet, reports suggest that the player and his partner are already house hunting in Madrid—on the advice of Atlético Madrid player Julián Álvarez, who recommended a home near his own. Although Fernández has a contract with Chelsea until 2032 and was signed from Benfica for €121 million, Real Madrid is not willing to match or exceed that fee. This complicates the operation, though the player’s desire to wear white could facilitate the deal.

The Signing Real Madrid Plans for the Club World Cup — and It’s Not Álvaro Carreras

In addition to looking abroad, Real Madrid is considering using its buy-back clause on Nico Paz, a 20-year-old Argentine midfielder who transferred to Como in Italy for €6 million. The Madrid club still owns 50% of his rights and has an €8 million buy-back option, which they plan to execute in time for the Club World Cup.

Nico Paz is highly valued in Italy—Juventus among the clubs following him closely—and currently has a market value of €35 million according to Transfermarkt. His return would be a key reinforcement for the midfield, and Xabi Alonso will play a decisive role in his future once he joins the team. The Club World Cup could serve as a testing ground for Paz’s permanent return to the Madrid squad.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid continues to evaluate the situation of Luka Modric, who at 39 years old wants to renew his contract one last time. The Croatian legend hopes to retire at Real Madrid, where he has played 590 matches and won 28 titles. His goal is also to reach the 2026 World Cup with Croatia, making it his fifth appearance in the tournament. While Modric has seen reduced minutes this season, he has played a record 56 matches and continues to be a key presence in the dressing room.

On the defensive front, Real Madrid is targeting Álvaro Carreras, a Benfica left-back who trained in La Fábrica but left the club in 2020. Now 21 and with a €50 million release clause, Carreras is one of the standout young defenders in the Champions League, particularly in his performances against Barcelona. His potential return would be expensive, but his versatility and progress make him an ideal fit for Xabi Alonso’s tactical system.

With a mix of youth, experience, and returning talent, Real Madrid is shaping a squad to compete not only in the Club World Cup but also to usher in a new era under Xabi Alonso.