Spending spree over, says club chief

MADRID: Real Madrid have ended their search for new signings with the deal to sign Spain midfielder Xabi Alonso from Liverpool and will now focus on trimming their squad, director general Jorge Valdano said yesterday.

"We understood Xabi Alonso was an important player to complete our squad and it was worth Real Madrid fighting for him," Valdano told radio station Cadena Ser.

"The club needed a shake up. Some very good players have come in to strengthen every position and the fans are very excited.