Bundesliga
New start for David Alaba: From record champions to the Bundesliga
David Alaba has apparently decided which club he will represent in the future. According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, there is already a verbal agreement with the Serie A club Udinese Calcio, although some details still need to be resolved. The 34‑year‑old defender has been without a club since leaving Real Madrid and is therefore free of a transfer fee.
Verbal agreement and open issues
Romano confirmed that Alaba and Udinese Calcio have reached a verbal agreement on a collaboration. Formalities, such as the signing of the contract, still need to be completed before the signing is finalised. The Austrian international is therefore expected to sign a new contract soon.
Udinese Calcio: Need in central defence
Udinese currently sits in 13th place in Serie A after one win, one draw and three defeats. The club has an urgent need in central defence, as Oumar Solet and Matteo Palma are currently injured. Coach Kosta Runjaic, a German born in Vienna, is looking for reinforcement, with Alaba considered an experienced central defender.
Alaba current form and outlook
Alaba most recently played for Real Madrid, the Spanish record champion, whose numerous injuries in recent years led to a non‑extension of his contract. His last competitive match was in May, in the 4:2 victory of Real over Athletic Club. Since then he has kept himself fit privately in Los Angeles and trained with various personal trainers.
The father of Alaba, George, recently stated that there are numerous inquiries from the United States and Europe and that his son will decide soon. In addition to Udinese, Union Berlin, Club America and a possible return to Austria Wien were mentioned, but so far there is no binding offer.
A move to Italy would end the almost three‑month absence from professional football for Alaba. Should the verbal agreement turn into a permanent contract, he will again be the focus of Bundesliga and European media, which are discussing his return to the top German league.