Real Madrid target Jurgen Klopp and Erling Haaland as long-term ‘saviours’ under Florentino Perez’s 2026 vision

Real Madrid are reportedly planning a bold rebuild aimed at restoring their dominance, with former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and Manchester City goal machine Erling Haaland emerging as dream targets for the summer of 2026. Following the recent departure of head coach Xabi Alonso, Los Blancos have endured a turbulent period, particularly in high-profile clashes with arch-rivals Barcelona. Those struggles have prompted decisive thinking at the top of the club.

Club president Florentino Perez is said to be determined to reshape the project with familiar ambition, believing that only elite figures can return Real Madrid to the summit of European and domestic football.

Perez wants more ‘Galacticos’ on and off the pitch

According to reports from Sky Sports Deutschland, Perez is once again “looking for saviours” and is preparing another era-defining plan. The Real Madrid president has built his legacy on the Galacticos philosophy, signing global superstars who deliver both success and prestige.

That same approach is now being revived. Perez is believed to be exploring the possibility of landing two of the most influential names in modern football — one to lead from the dugout and another to dominate on the pitch. While 2026 remains some distance away, initial groundwork could reportedly begin much sooner as Madrid position themselves for a transformative summer.

Klopp talks: former Liverpool boss on Madrid’s internal shortlist

With club legend Alvaro Arbeloa currently acting as interim head coach, Sky report that Klopp is “being discussed internally” at the Bernabeu. The German manager stepped away from Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season and later took on the role of Global Head of Soccer for Red Bull.

Klopp has repeatedly stated that he is in no rush to return to frontline management. Speaking to Servus TV after Alonso’s dismissal, he confirmed that he had received messages but ruled out any immediate connection to Madrid.

“My phone did ring — though not from Madrid,” Klopp said. “Some people felt they had to reach out, but this has absolutely nothing to do with me. It didn’t trigger anything either.”

He admitted being surprised by Alonso’s sacking, especially following a cup final defeat to Barcelona, but stressed that his response to the speculation was limited to replying to messages with emojis.

Who else could take charge at the Bernabeu?

Klopp is not the only name under consideration. Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca and Real Madrid icon Zinedine Zidane have both been linked with the vacancy. However, Zidane’s relationship with Perez is believed to be strained after his previous spells in charge, despite delivering multiple Champions League titles.

Zidane is also reportedly being lined up for the France national team job after the 2026 World Cup, which could rule out a third return to Madrid.

Although Klopp is not currently available, sources suggest that Real Madrid remain a strong attraction for the 58-year-old. It is claimed he would seriously consider the role if approached with a clear long-term vision and assurances that his demands would be fully backed.

With Haaland also admired as the ideal focal point for Madrid’s future attack, Perez’s 2026 blueprint signals another potential Galacticos era — one built on authority, star power, and global impact.