Bayer Leverkusen head coach Xabi Alonso has addressed speculation linking him with a return to Real Madrid, insisting his focus remains firmly on the current season.

Reports in Spain and Germany have suggested that the 43-year-old is on the shortlist to succeed Carlo Ancelotti at the Santiago Bernabéu, should the Italian depart the club at the end of the season. But for Alonso, such discussions can wait.

"Now is not the time to talk about my future," Alonso said when asked about the Real Madrid rumours. "We are in a crucial stage of the season. I don't want to get into speculation. I understand why these things are being talked about, but what matters most is what I’m doing here and now."

Bayer Leverkusen are currently chasing the Bundesliga title, sitting just six points behind the league leaders, and Alonso has been widely praised for his work in transforming the team into serious contenders both domestically and in Europe.

The club's CEO, Fernando Carro, recently reaffirmed their confidence in Alonso, stating that the Spaniard "feels comfortable" in Leverkusen and is already involved in planning for next season’s transfers.

Xabi Alonso spent five successful years at Real Madrid as a player between 2009 and 2014, winning both La Liga and the UEFA Champions League with the Spanish giants — and a return to Madrid, this time as head coach, remains a tantalising prospect for many fans.