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New Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa is wasting no time in reshaping his team, with reports suggesting he is planning an ambitious move for three Real Madrid players. The Spaniard, who recently took charge at Craven Cottage, intends to use his strong ties with the La Liga giants to attract some of their most talented youngsters to west London.

Arbeloa Targets Madrid Trio

Having signed a three-year deal with Fulham, Arbeloa is reportedly keen on bringing attacking midfielder Franco Mastantuono, full-back Fran Garcia, and forward Gonzalo Garcia to the Premier League. All three players are familiar to Arbeloa, who worked closely with them during his spell in the Madrid dugout. The former right-back managed Real Madrid for the final 28 matches of the 2025–26 season, steering them to second place in La Liga and a Champions League quarter-final finish against Bayern Munich, after stepping up from his role as a youth coach following Xabi Alonso’s departure.

Mastantuono Draws Interest from Europe’s Elite

The most high-profile target on Arbeloa’s list is Franco Mastantuono. However, securing his services could prove challenging, as the teenage star is expected to be available on loan and is attracting interest from at least a dozen top European clubs. Arbeloa will likely have to rely heavily on his personal relationship with the youngster to convince him to join Fulham.

Fran Garcia’s potential move to London appears more straightforward. The full-back could be allowed to leave Madrid following the club’s recent signing of Marc Cucurella from Chelsea, which has left Fran surplus to requirements. Meanwhile, Gonzalo Garcia is set to take part in Jose Mourinho’s pre-season tour with Real Madrid, but sources suggest he may become available later in the transfer window.

Arbeloa’s Appointment Backed by Big Names

Arbeloa arrived in London with glowing endorsements from some of the most influential figures in football. His appointment was supported by recommendations from Real Madrid president Florentino Perez and Jose Mourinho, both of whom worked closely with him during his playing days at the Bernabeu.

“It is a real honour for me to begin this new chapter at Fulham FC, the oldest club in London,” Arbeloa said. “I feel a great sense of responsibility and I am deeply thankful to Mr Shahid Khan and Mr Tony Khan for the trust they have shown in me as Fulham compete in the Premier League.”

Ambition at Craven Cottage

Fulham’s decision to appoint Arbeloa followed a thorough search for Marco Silva’s replacement. Former Tottenham and Brentford boss Thomas Frank was among those linked with the role, while ex-Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna was considered too costly at £8 million before factoring in salary and staff expenses. Ultimately, Fulham chose Arbeloa for his unique connections and experience among Europe’s football elite.

Chairman Shahid Khan expressed his excitement over the appointment, saying, “Alvaro is, by his own admission, very ambitious. He has spent valuable time with some of the best players, clubs, and systems in the world, and those experiences will serve him well here at Fulham. Alvaro also has a deep interest in our academy and believes in giving young players opportunities. I was delighted to hear his vision for attacking football and his commitment to developing talent.”