Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso on Friday refused to shut down speculation he could be set for a move to Real Madrid in the summer. Madrid's heavy Champions League quarter-final defeat by Arsenal could bring an end to Carlo Ancelotti's second stint at the club, with Alonso believed to be the preferred replacement. Alonso spent five seasons at Madrid during his playing career, winning the Champions League and La Liga. After taking over as Leverkusen boss in October 2022, his first top-flight job, Alonso led the club to an unbeaten league and cup double last season, the first time they had ever won the Bundesliga.