Real Madrid Target Inter Milan’s Nicolò Barella Following Xabi Alonso’s Request

Real Madrid are preparing a move to sign Inter Milan midfielder Nicolò Barella, with new head coach Xabi Alonso identifying the Italian international as a top transfer priority for the upcoming season.

According to reports from DefensaCentral, Alonso has made a direct request to the club’s board to secure Barella’s arrival as he looks to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts in the 2025/26 campaign.

Barella Seen as the Missing Piece

Despite an already competitive midfield, Alonso believes Barella offers a unique combination of technical ability, tactical intelligence, and tempo control, attributes he sees as vital to implementing his game model at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Barella, 27, played a pivotal role in Inter Milan’s run to the Champions League final last season and remains one of Serie A’s most consistent performers.

Inter Milan Open to Selling for €65 Million

Inter Milan are reportedly willing to negotiate for the midfielder, with the asking price set at €65 million. Financial pressures at the Italian club are said to be influencing the decision to entertain offers for one of their key assets.

Real Madrid are exploring ways to lower the cost, including performance-based bonuses or potential player swaps, mirroring strategies they’ve successfully used in past negotiations.

Real Madrid Push to Finalize Move Before Preseason

With the squad expected to report back for preseason training on August 4, Alonso is eager to finalize squad planning as early as possible. Barella is viewed as the club’s most important remaining transfer target this window.

Internal sources at the Bernabéu have confirmed that talks have intensified, with the board aiming to wrap up the deal before the new La Liga season begins.