A senior Real Madrid star is likely to join one of the money-laden Saudi Pro League (SPL) teams at the end of the season, and gaffer Xabi Alonso has already been told about the development, a report claimed. If you are thinking it is Vinícius Júnior, then you got it wrong.
It is Austrian national team captain David Alaba who is set to join the RSL next season after recurring injury concerns have limited his role at the Spanish capital. The former Bayern Munich star, who has another year left on his current deal, is likely to see his exit agreed by his current employers who have already added him to the ‘for sale’ list for obvious reasons, the report added.
Having considered all factors involved, Real Madrid have come to the conclusion that given his age and fitness issues, offering Alaba another contract extension is not viable, Defensa Central said in a report. The fact that Xabi Alonso's style of play is not one that Alaba can thrive under means that, despite his unparalleled experience, the four-time Champions League winner has become a dispensable asset for Los Blancos, the report said.
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The news portal that is linked to Real Madrid added that Xabi has already been told about the board's decision to sell Alaba in the summer so that he will not walk away as a free agent. The 33-year-old has also been told that he was allowed to start talking contract negotiations with potential bidders. Real Madrid are alright even if the versatile defender gets a deal sealed in January, with the aim of securing a contract by June end, it added.
Saudi and Qatar remain the frontrunners to sign Alaba, who has played 120 games for Real Madrid. Major League Soccer could also be interested in the player who can also operate as a left-back and CDM, but the insane amount of money the Middle East can pump into a deal means he is more likely to head there, multiple reports said.