David Alaba Poised to Leave Real Madrid On Free Transfer
David Alaba is expected to leave Real Madrid as a free agent when his current contract expires, with multiple clubs already positioning themselves ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who provided an update on Friday, “David Alaba, expected to leave Real Madrid as a free agent, as reported since November. Several clubs already approached the Austrian defender, out of contract at Real Madrid.”
The 33-year-old Austria international joined the Spanish giants on a free transfer in July 2021 following a decorated 13-year spell at Bayern Munich, where he won 10 Bundesliga titles and two UEFA Champions League trophies. His five-year contract at the Santiago Bernabéu is set to expire in June 2026.
Alaba has made over 130 appearances for Real Madrid across all competitions, contributing five goals and nine assists. His versatility across the backline—capable of operating as a centre-back, left-back, and defensive midfielder—has made him a valuable asset in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad. He was part of the Real Madrid side that secured the 2021-2022 La Liga title and the 2022 UEFA Champions League crown.
Neither the player nor Real Madrid have issued official statements confirming the departure. However, reports circulating since November 2025 have consistently pointed toward a separation at the end of the current campaign.
Alaba’s availability on a free transfer is expected to generate significant interest. His experience at the highest level, combined with leadership qualities honed as captain of the Austrian national team, positions him as an attractive proposition for clubs across Europe seeking defensive reinforcement without a transfer fee.
The defender began his professional career at Austria Vienna before moving to Bayern Munich’s academy in 2008. Over 431 appearances for the Bavarian club, he established himself as one of Europe’s most reliable and technically gifted defenders, earning a reputation for precise passing, set-piece proficiency, and tactical intelligence.
Real Madrid, meanwhile, continue to reshape their defensive unit. The club has invested in younger talents including French international Eduardo Camavinga as a left-back option and Brazilian centre-back Éder Militão. The expected departure of Alaba frees up significant wage space for potential reinforcements.
Alaba has earned 105 caps for Austria, scoring 15 goals, and has represented his country at two UEFA European Championships. He remains a central figure in the national team setup under head coach Ralf Rangnick.