As per reports, Real Madrid are ready to trigger the €20 million release clause of Elche CF’s rising midfield star Rodrigo Mendoza.
Xabi Alonso wants Elche midfielder at Madrid
Real Madrid’s rebuild under Xabi Alonso isn’t just about big names or flashy signings. The focus now seems to be on young, technically sharp players who can carry the club forward. Rodrigo Mendoza is becoming a Elche’s midfield star. He has impressed everyone at his club this season. Also, he has played over fifty games in the top league so far. For a player still finding his feet in the Spanish league, these numbers talks about his talent.
Alonso is keeping tabs in the player’s growth, as per reports. Sources close to the club claim the Madrid boss has been impressed with Mendoza’s composure and passing range, especially after watching him at the U20 World Cup. Some fans are comparing his playing style and ball control with Alonso. Based on this, this is why Los Blancos are considering to trigger the €20m clause. This move could be the one that shapes the future of the young midfielder.
😎 ¡Rumbo a cuartos con estilo!
Preciosa asistencia de nuestro 𝐑𝐨𝐝𝐫𝐢 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐳𝐚 para avanzar a la siguiente fase 🙌
¡Vamos, @SEFutbol! 🇪🇸#U20WC pic.twitter.com/Dl9v09qNKM
— Elche Club de Fútbol (@elchecf) October 8, 2025
Why Elche midfielder fits long-term plans at Madrid ?
Madrid’s interest in Mendoza isn’t just about talent, it’s about identity. The club has made very significant investments in recent years, bringing in players like Jude Bellingham and Camavinga, but Alonso desires an even greater Spanish youth component to the core of his project. Mendoza has the tools to play at a big club. He is the talent, mindset, and workrate to match the pace of La Liga.
At Elche, he has already shown that he is calm while playing under pressure. He can dictate the game when facing a top opposition. He is good in tight spaces, can retain the possession through his clever passing. The player has the natural calmness that Madrid players show on a daily basis. More importantly, he is a player who could swiftly adapt to Alonso’s style of play, one that is smart in pressing and quick transitional play. If he continues to perform as he is doing currently, Real Madrid will bring on yet another young player but one who has a specific understanding of Madrid’s football.
Summer 2026 could be his big break
Reports have indicated that Real Madrid is not prepared to take action immediately but may have some plans to conclude a transfer in the summer of 2026. Given that, Mendoza has the time to grow at Elche for the time being. And he could leave the door open for a potential transfer down the line. The player’s development this season will be seen very carefully by Madrid’s scouts, who have already put him on their radar as a player to watch.
For the young player, it would be huge deal. Becoming a part of club like Real Madrid means there will be a battle to earn a place amongst some of the most well-renowned names in world football, but it is precisely the type of circumstance that makes someone’s career. If he is capable of being consistent and developing tactically this season, Alonso will not only consider him for a position on Castilla, but he may well put him straight into the first-team environment. And at a cost of €20 million, it is a deal that makes sense financially and strategically for the European giants, as well.
Author’s Opinion:
Rodrigo Mendoza seems to be the right deal for Madrid. He’s talented, and has the right personality. If part of Xabi Alonso’s vision for the club is to create a Spanish core, Mendoza is a terrific selection to make that happen. The youngster’s got the game. Now, it’s about proving he can handle the Madrid spotlight.
