Real Madrid identify Roberto De Zerbi as Ancelotti replacement

De Zerbi is a man in demand

Ancelotti's contract expires at the end of this season and it is widely expected that he will leave to take charge of Brazil.

The Italian is yet to confirm where his future lies however Spanish publication SPORT are already making plans to ensure they have a replacement ready to go.

De Zerbi has seriously impressed since joining Brighton and Hove Albion over a year ago, securing them European football for the first time in their history after finishing sixth in the Premier League.

Florentino Perez reportledy believes the 44-year-old is "prepared to make the big leap in his career" and has been particularly impressed with his work when it comes to developing young players.

Madrid have a core of young players that include Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga and Endrick - who joins next year - and Perez believes that the former Shakhtar Donetsk boss can elevate them to the next level.

One name that has also been linked with the position are Xabi Alonso, who currently has Bayer Leverkusen unbeaten at the top of the Bundesliga.

Other names include Los Blancos legend Raul, who is in charge of the B team, and a surprise return for Jose Mourinho.

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