Union Berlin eye Alaba as desperate defence solution

David Alaba, the 34‑year‑old Austrian defender, remains a free agent after his Real Madrid contract expired, and a sensational Bundesliga return is being linked with Union Berlin. The Soccrates Images/GettyImages picture shows the former FC Bayern München star, whose trophy‑laden career fuels the rumour.

Alaba can look back on an impressive haul of domestic and continental titles earned with both FC Bayern München and Real Madrid. Observers have even joked that his biceps have grown from the sheer number of trophies he has lifted.

The Austrian’s deal with the Spanish giants concluded this summer, leaving the 34‑year‑old Wiener without a club for the first time since his breakthrough.

Union Berlin’s defensive woes

Union Berlin sit in the Bundesliga relegation zone after four matches, having conceded 17 goals and recently suffered a 0‑7 drubbing at the hands of Alaba’s former club, Bayern München, on Friday.

Coach Mauro Lustrinelli has warned that his backline must be steadied quickly. The summer exits of Danilho Doekhi and Diogo Leite have stripped the side of much defensive substance, prompting calls for an experienced leader such as Alaba.

Speculation fuels the transfer chatter

Sport has paired Alaba with fellow defender Jannik Vestergaard, while former manager Horst Heldt floated the Austrian as a potential problem‑solver for the Berlin side. The suggestion has sparked debate about the seriousness of the proposal.

Earlier, 90min also listed Alaba among possible German returnees, naming Bayern and, more recently, Hamburger SV as alternatives. The outlet noted that linking the Austrian with a defence‑troubled Bundesliga club is not far‑fetched.

Whether any of these rumours will materialise, or if Union Berlin will secure a different defensive recruit, remains to be seen.