Report: Jurgen Klopp Draws Up Six-Man Wishlist at Real Madrid — Five Big Names Facing the Axe

 

 

Following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal at Real Madrid, Álvaro Arbeloa has been placed in temporary charge until the end of the season. Behind the scenes, however, Los Blancos are already weighing up long-term managerial options – and Jurgen Klopp has emerged as a shock contender.

Although the German currently serves as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer, reports suggest he is “seriously considering” a return to the dugout with Madrid. Should he make the move to the Bernabéu, it’s believed the 58-year-old plans a ruthless overhaul.

Spanish reports via TeamTalk claim Klopp has identified six players he wants gone, while also preparing a shortlist of six new signings. Defence appears to be his biggest concern, particularly at left-back, with both Ferland Mendy and David Alaba reportedly facing the axe. The midfield could also be reshaped, as Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos are said to be at risk of being moved on.

Up front, Brahim Díaz’s future would be bleak under Klopp, who wants someone better aligned with his high-intensity philosophy.

However, one of Klopp’s dream signings is already off the table. Marc Guehi, long admired by Liverpool and Arsenal, is now bound for Manchester City on a staggering £300,000-a-week deal. That leaves Bayern Munich’s Dayot Upamecano as Klopp’s top centre-back target.

Rather than chasing superstar “Galacticos,” Klopp is reportedly eyeing more functional, energetic profiles. Bournemouth’s 20-year-old full-back Alex Jimenez is one such name. In midfield, Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães features prominently, alongside Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller – though competition from German clubs and Manchester United could complicate any move.

On the wings, Klopp is said to be targeting Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi, a familiar face from his Bundesliga roots.

Notably, the list lacks the usual marquee names associated with Real Madrid. Instead, it reflects Klopp’s desire to reshape the club’s culture – prioritising intensity, cohesion and hunger over star power.