Real Madrid to Tie Up Xabi Alonso Contract Amid Manchester United, Chelsea Talk

Real Madrid are hoping to extend Xabi Alonso's contract at the Bernabeu. Spanish newspaper Marca, via Inside Spanish Football's Tom Conn, reports that Sami Khedira's recent injury has only made them more eager to agree a new deal.

As Sports Illustrated's Grant Wahl confirmed, Khedira faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering an ACL and MCL tear on international duty:

A report by the official Real Madrid website confirms that the midfielder successfully underwent surgery in Augsburg over the weekend and will now begin the long road back to recovery.   

As things stand, Alonso's contract will expire in the summer and Khedira's absence means that the ball is effectively in the player's court regarding an extension.

Conn's report reads:

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Alonso holds the power to his own future, as his negotiating power has increased due to the injury to Khedira, knowing Real Madrid are desperate to retain his services for several more years.

Speculation was abound that Alonso could be making his way out of the Santiago Bernabeu in order to sign what would likely be his last ‘big money’ contract, but Ancelotti’s admiration and confidence means he is indispensable to the team.

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The former Liverpool man has been one of the most consistent parts of the Real Madrid setup in recent seasons and recently made his own return from injury, making just his third La Liga appearance of the campaign against Real Sociedad.

Manchester United and Chelsea both hope to lure the midfielder back to England's first tier, according to Nick Lustig of the Daily Star, who recently reported the duo's interest:

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Chelsea have been monitoring Alonso's situation and former Madrid boss Jose Mourinho is keen to link up again with him at Stamford Bridge.

However according to reports in Spain the Blues will face competition for the 31-year-old's signature from United, who have already opened up discussions with Alonso.

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Any move to Old Trafford would be particularly surprising given the player's Anfield past, but Alonso does fit the Red Devils' need for more central pedigree.

According to Transfermarkt.co.uk, the 31-year-old is on track to beat his 209-appearance record at Liverpool, currently having featured in 196 games with Real.

In that time, Alonso has won one La Liga title, a Copa del Rey and a Spanish Supercup.

Considering the playmaker turns 32 on Nov. 25, it's right to believe that the next contract Alonso signs is likely to be the last big payday of his career, so the midfielder will want to take his time in negotiating.

That being said, the Bernabeu support may not take too kindly to Alonso using Khedira's absence as any sort of bargaining chip, making it vital that he maintain good relations with his club.