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Xabi Alonso leaves Chelsea star's agents 'in fear' after Arsenal defeat

Xabi Alonso has left a Chelsea star's agent fearing that the player might struggle for regular first-team game time this season following Sunday's defeat at Arsenal Estevao's camp are worried that Xabi Alonso will continue to use him at right wing-back for Chelsea, it has been claimed. The 19-year-old, who joined the Blues in a £29million deal from Palmeiras last summer, made 38 appearances during his first season at Stamford Bridge, scoring eight goals and providing three assists. But Estevao's game time has been reduced so far this term following Xabi Alonso's appointment as the club's first-team manager. Alonso has started with a three-at-the-back formation in each of his first two Premier League matches with two defensive-minded midfielders, two attacking midfielders and one centre forward. Cole Palmer and Morgan Rogers, who signed for the Blues in a club record £117million deal earlier this summer, have operated in the No.10 roles with Joao Pedro up front. ...

Arsenal set £132m price tag on midfielder amid Real Madrid interest

 

Credit to Fichajes for the original reporting. The latest update surrounding Declan Rice has drawn considerable attention across Europe, particularly with the revelation that Arsenal have placed a 150 million euro valuation on their influential midfielder. As Fichajes stated, Arsenal have “valued one of their best players, Real Madrid’s target for midfield, at 150 million euros.” This figure speaks to both Rice’s current impact and the Gunners strategic positioning in the market.


Rising Value of Declan Rice

Declan Rice has become one of the most complete midfielders in European football and Fichajes note that “Real Madrid are watching his profile with interest.” His development at Arsenal has accelerated since his arrival in 2023 for around £105 million. His defensive presence, his assurance in possession and his growing offensive reliability have made him central to Mikel Arteta’s system.



Real Madrid’s Strategic Consideration

Real Madrid’s interest fits within their medium term plan to refresh their midfield and maintain elite depth. Fichajes report that Los Blancos appreciate that Rice “combines physicality, reading of the game and ability to grow in a squad that aims high.”


However, the financial reality is significant. Madrid sources acknowledge that “the figure requested by Arsenal complicates the operation.” The club are evaluating contract structures and potential outgoing deals, yet the cost could force them to prioritise other targets first.


Obstacles That Shape the Market

The 150 million euro valuation stands as the clearest obstacle. Even for Real Madrid, that level of expenditure requires careful planning, especially in a window where multiple positions may need reinforcement. Another concern is Rice’s own calculation. The report states that “adaptation, internal competition and the emotional cost also weigh heavily” when considering a move of this magnitude.


At present, Rice remains fully embedded at Arsenal, and with his role growing, the Gunners appear in no rush to enter negotiations.


https://eplindex.com/138876/arsenal-set-132m-price-tag-on-midfielder-amid-real-madrid-interest.html

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