Udinese sign Alaba, Ekkelenkamp gets four‑time Champions League

On Udinese’s training grounds this week the Austrian defender David Alaba was seen, ready to train alongside the recently signed Jurgen Ekkelenkamp.

Fabrizio Romano reported Wednesday morning that Alaba has reached a verbal agreement with the Italian club. The transfer is not yet officially completed, but the agreement has already been confirmed.

Alaba has been a free agent since his departure from Real Madrid last summer. After an injury‑prone period he returned fit following a strong World Cup performance with Austria.

New teammate for Ekkelenkamp

The former Ajax player Jurgen Ekkelenkamp has been under contract with Udinese since 2024. With Alaba he gets a colleague who has won the Champions League four times.

Udinese seals the deal: David Alaba ready to wear the Italian shirt

In the weeks leading up to the agreement Alaba spoke with Inter Miami, Hamburg SV, Union Berlin, Al‑Sadd FC and Club América. In the end Udinese got the better end.

Alaba is among the most decorated footballers: ten German championships and two Spanish titles, six German cups, one Spanish cup and four Champions League victories, two with Bayern München and two with Real Madrid.

His arrival strengthens Udinese's defence and brings a wealth of international experience to the Serie A‑club.