Sky Deutschland says Bayer are aware of Real Madrid's plans and will insist on a fee of €15-20m to release Xabi from his contract. Knowing the situation, Bayer are already studying the coaching market for potential replacements.

It is no secret that Real Madrid are eyeing Alonso as a possible replacement for Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian manager is on the hot seat after Los Blancos crashed out of the Champions League and could be fired at the end of the season if his team does not win the Copa del Rey and/or La Liga.

Bayer Leverkusen expect a decision over head coach Xabi Alonso’s future to be made in the next three to four weeks. The 43-year-old Spaniard is favoured by Real Madrid to take over from Carlo Ancelotti and Leverkusen CEO Fernando Carro says there is an agreement with Alonso that they would discuss any offers if he is approached by his former clubs.