Real Madrid are intensifying their search for a replacement for Toni Kroos, having reportedly identified three Premier League stars as potential targets.

Kroos announced his surprising retirement from football at the age of 34 earlier this year, ending his illustrious career by leading Madrid to a 15th European Cup with a victory over Borussia Dortmund at Wembley in June.

Carlo Ancelotti’s squad has struggled in Europe this season without their German maestro, losing three of their five Champions League matches. They also find themselves just a point behind leaders Barcelona in La Liga.

With the season hanging in the balance, Madrid newspaper Diario AS, which has strong ties to the club, revealed the players on Ancelotti’s wishlist.

Curtis Jones, Liverpool

Jones has emerged as one of the Premier League’s top midfielders this season, notably excelling against Real Madrid in the Champions League. The 23-year-old kept Jude Bellingham quiet during an all-action performance and leads the national team in passing accuracy, having completed 94.8% of his passes.

Rodri, Manchester City

The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner is a prime candidate to take over Kroos’s role, and Real will hope that the current turmoil at Manchester City could entice Rodri to Madrid. The 28-year-old’s impact on the Premier League champions has been evident during his absence due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury since September, highlighting his importance to the team.

Enzo Fernandez, Chelsea

Chelsea’s record signing, Enzo Fernandez, who arrived for £107 million in January 2023, is also on Madrid’s radar. The Argentine has been crucial for Chelsea, scoring in consecutive matches and even captaining the side, underscoring his growing significance in an improving team. However, his long-term contract at Stamford Bridge runs until 2032, meaning a hefty transfer fee would be required to bring him to Madrid.