Transfer Rumours: Real Madrid make third approach for David Alaba
According to sources, Real Madrid have made a €65 million bid for Bayern Munich’s David Alaba. Bayern though are interested in a cash+player deal and want Pepe included in the deal. The clubs met recently at the International Champions Cup and the Spanish giants took advantage of this fact to table an improved bid for the Austrian after the football match.
Madrid have been on Alaba’s trail ever since early January. Agents were sent to meet representatives of Alaba and his father to try to reduce Bayern’s asking price in July.
This was reportedly Real Madrid’s third bid for the versatile Austrian, demonstrating Zidane’s intent on procuring the player. The 2 previous offers of €50m and €65m were rejected, with Bayern keen on a Raphael Varane switch in the latter, something Los Blancos were not interested in.
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Alaba has been one of Bayern Munich’s most consistent performers in the past few seasons. A part of UEFA’s team of the year for 3 consecutive years, the Austrian has grown in stature each year.
Ancelotti too has recognised Alaba’s importance and is unwilling to offload the 24-year-old. With an €80 million price tag slapped on his head to ward off interest, Ancelotti has also played Alaba in his preferred central midfield position, something Pep was unwilling to do.
At just 24, Alaba would be a brilliant addition for Real Madrid. The Austrian would be expected to play at left back or central midfield. Alaba can also be utilised as an emergency number 10 where he has performed adequately for his national team.
Still improving, Alaba has 5 Bundesliga titles as well as a UEFA Champions League medal to his name. An €80m price tag is usually reserved for attackers, but a player of such versatility and consistency deserves it.
Real Madrid may be forced to meet the €80m valuation, but are unwilling to offer a player in exchange. Varane at 23 is one of the future prospects of the side and is expected to play a major role in the upcoming La Liga campaign, but they may be well advised in offloading Pepe, who at 33 does not have many years left in his locker.