David Alaba Nears Udinese Switch After Real Madrid Exit

David Alaba is close to continuing his career in Serie A after reaching a verbal agreement with Udinese. The 34-year-old Austria international is a free agent following the expiry of his Real Madrid contract at the end of June, with the remaining formalities now expected to determine when the move can be completed.

Udinese move enters its final administrative stage

Udinese have moved ahead of several more established Italian contenders in the pursuit of the former Bayern Munich and Real Madrid defender. Inter, Milan and Juventus had all been linked with an opportunity to sign Alaba earlier in the summer, but Udinese are now poised to secure the experienced defender.

The proposed deal is not yet official, with contractual and registration work still to be concluded. Alaba and Udinese have nevertheless agreed the main terms verbally, leaving the final paperwork as the next step before a public announcement.

As an unattached player, Alaba is not tied to the usual transfer-window timetable. That status allows Udinese to register him for Serie A once the agreement is signed and the relevant procedures have been completed.

Timeline of the proposed free transfer

1. Alaba’s Real Madrid contract ended at the close of June, making him available without a transfer fee.
2. Italian clubs including Inter, Milan and Juventus were reported to have been offered the chance to sign him during the summer.
3. Udinese opened discussions and reached a verbal understanding with the player.
4. The parties must now complete formal contractual and administrative requirements before the transfer can be confirmed.

Elite experience for Udinese’s defensive group

Alaba would bring unusual pedigree to Udinese’s back line. Across his career, he has won four Champions League titles and ten Bundesliga championships, collecting major honours during a long spell at Bayern before moving to Madrid.

His versatility is also likely to be a significant consideration for Udinese. Alaba has operated across the defence during his career and arrives with extensive experience at the highest level of club football, as well as for Austria.

His final season in Spain was more limited, however. He made 16 appearances for Real Madrid before leaving the Santiago Bernabéu, ending a spell in which he recorded five goals and nine assists in 132 matches in all competitions.

Key takeaways

• Alaba has agreed verbally to join Udinese and is awaiting completion of the formal process.
• The defender can join without a fee after becoming a free agent at the end of June.
• Udinese appear to have beaten Inter, Milan and Juventus to the prospective signing.
• Once registered, the 34-year-old would be available for Serie A action without waiting for a standard transfer deadline.