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SOCCER

Fede Valverde is shouting for it: Xabi Alonso seals a top signing for €40M

This signing is exactly what Real Madrid needs

Fede Valverde is one of the main engines at Real Madrid. His physical power, constant movement, and ability to appear in every area of the field have made him an indispensable player for Xabi Alonso. The "8" shows character, intensity, and leadership, as well as being a captain who symbolizes the squad's competitive spirit.

However, there is one aspect of the game in which Fede Valverde doesn't reach the desired level to be Kroos's heir. When it comes to organizing, slowing down, and dictating the tempo of a match, the Uruguayan doesn't have the necessary characteristics. He is an all-terrain midfielder, but not a conductor, and that's why Xabi Alonso is looking for a brain capable of managing the midfield the way the German did.

A Real Madrid football player walking on the pitch while a player from the opposing team bends down adjusting his sock.
Fede is very good, but he's not Kroos | Europa Press

The search for the new Toni Kroos

Toni Kroos's departure has left a clear void in the center of the white midfield. His exceptional vision and ability to organize play from the back were unique, and although Madrid has very talented footballers, none of them have that pure organizer profile. Arda Güler and Dani Ceballos offer alternatives, but they don't guarantee the reliability of a midfielder who can control the tempo in every match.

That's why Xabi Alonso has told the board about the need to sign a footballer with those characteristics. During the international break, different names have been considered, from young prospects to players already established at the top level. After a long search, Florentino Pérez has already pointed to his favorite.

The favorite: Hugo Larsson

In this context, the name that stands out most at Valdebebas is Hugo Larsson. The Swedish midfielder from Eintracht Frankfurt has drawn praise for his tactical maturity despite his youth. He is a player with physical presence and remarkable intelligence to organize play and break lines with vertical passes.

Hugo Larsson was already on Xabi Alonso's radar during his time in the Bundesliga, where he was able to follow him closely. The reports handled by Juni Calafat are also very positive, to the point that the chief scout plans to travel to Germany to see him live.

At 21 years old, Hugo Larsson fits Madrid's youth policy and could become the key signing to continue Kroos's legacy.

A move for the future

Real Madrid knows that the operation won't be easy, because Eintracht Frankfurt doesn't want to let go of their gem without tough negotiations. Even so, Florentino Pérez understands that the investment is worth it and is ready to make a move. The priority is to make sure the midfield remains competitive and at the highest level in the coming years.

The goal is clear: Fede Valverde will remain the heart of the team, but the brain could arrive from Germany. Hugo Larsson appears as the leading candidate to become the new conductor of Madrid's midfield. For €40 million, it's done.

➡️ Real Madrid ➡️ Soccer

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