Confirmed: He’s the New Rodri — and Xabi Alonso Wants Him for Next Season
Real Madrid are keeping an increasingly close eye on Chema, the academy product currently playing as a holding midfielder for Stuttgart, whom they can re-sign for €13 million. His impressive performances in the Bundesliga have caught Madrid’s attention, and in recent weeks the club has intensified its scouting efforts.
According to several online reports, Madrid see Chema as “the new Rodri,” and Xabi Alonso would be delighted to bring him in for next season.
However, Defensa Central has clarified that this information is not yet confirmed. Club sources have told them that while Madrid are indeed monitoring Chema’s progress very closely, no final decision has been made. There’s still a long season ahead, and many factors could influence the situation in the coming months.
Inside the club, the search continues for a midfielder who can help in the creative and transitional phases of play. There are several profiles under consideration, and Madrid plan to narrow the list down later — prioritizing players who fit both the sporting project and the financial context, including contract situations and expected roles within the squad.
The Rodri Option
A few months ago, there were suggestions that Rodri Hernández could eventually join Real Madrid. However, that possibility has now been completely ruled out. The Spanish midfielder will turn 30 next summer, is under contract with Manchester City until 2027, and has an estimated market value of €90 million according to Transfermarkt.
Given those numbers, City would likely demand a huge fee for any transfer — and Rodri has yet to fully regain his top form following injury.
At the Etihad, Pep Guardiola remains confident that Rodri will return to his best level, and the club is working on a contract renewal. The process has been slow, as the player is still dealing with minor physical issues since his return. So far, he has appeared in six Premier League matches and two in the Champions League, but has missed several others.
