Real Madrid and Barcelona have reportedly resumed their rivalry in the transfer market, with Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso the subject of their interest.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Don Balon, Marcos Alonso has sparked a transfer battle between the Royal Two of Spanish football. Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in signing the Chelsea defender in the summer transfer window, with Los Blancos in pole position as of now.
Alonso initially emanated from the Real Madrid academy, although he never really managed to establish himself in the first-team setup at the Bernabeu. Upon departing from the La Liga club, the Spaniard played for middle and lower run clubs in the Premier League and Serie A before joining Chelsea in the summer of 2016.
At Stamford Bridge, Alonso has been nothing short of a revelation, having been a key figure for the Blues over the last couple of seasons. While he played a starring role in Chelsea’s title winning 2016-17 Premier League campaign, the player was one of the standouts in an average campaign for the West Londoners in the 2017-18 season.
With 8 goals and 4 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions, Alonso was one of the most prolific full-backs in Europe, who also impressed with his defensive abilities. His consistent outings have not gone unnoticed either, with Real Madrid and Barcelona now in pursuit of the Chelsea defender.
The European champions already seem to be well covered in the left-back department, with Marcelo one of the best in his trade, and Theo Hernandez his deputy. But, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has been unimpressed by the French youngster’s performances this past season and is looking for a more assured replacement for him.
The interest in Alonso from Real Madrid isn’t new either, with widespread reports often linking him with a move to the Bernabeu. Barcelona have also reportedly had their eyes on the 27-year-old for a while now, and are now looking to make a move for him.
The La Liga champions look set to lose the services of Lucas Digne this summer, with the Frenchman keen to secure regular first-team football next season. To make matters more concerning, Jordi Alba’s Barcelona future is reportedly uncertain as well, meaning the Blaugrana urgently need to bolster the left side of defence.
Alonso is, thus, a viable target for both Real Madrid and Barcelona, who are set to engage in a fierce battle for him, with Chelsea open to selling the player. The Blues’ stance would come as a blow to the Spaniard, who recently pledged his loyalty to the club.
A move could, thus, be a real possibility, and it remains to be seen which project appeals more to Alonso. As of now, Real Madrid seem to be leading Barcelona in his pursuit, with the Chelsea man leaning towards his former club.
