Milan are reportedly considering a move for Real Madrid defender David Alaba, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the month. The potential transfer is heavily linked to the possible appointment of Ralf Rangnick as the club’s new manager, with the pair having a pre-existing relationship from the Austrian national team.
Alaba, 33, has spent the last five seasons with Real Madrid following a successful spell with Bayern Munich. While he has a decorated career with 39 titles including four Champions League trophies, his time in Spain has been hampered by injuries, sidelining him for approximately 140 matches due to issues including a cruciate ligament rupture, meniscus problems, and calf strains. Despite these setbacks, his experience and quality are seen as valuable assets.
The Austrian international has primarily featured as a left-back or centre-back throughout his career, but has expressed a desire to play in midfield, a position he prefers. This ambition could be fulfilled at Milan, particularly given potential departures from the midfield including veteran Luka Modric and Juventus loanee Rabiot. Alaba previously had a promise of playing centrally with Bayern Munich, but this never materialized, prompting his move to Real Madrid in 2021.
Alaba’s personality is also noted as a potential positive for the Milan dressing room. Born to a Nigerian father and a Filipino mother, he has spoken openly about overcoming bullying as a child and displays a confident and outspoken character. He is known for his unique style and strong religious faith, often reading passages from the Bible before matches and incorporating faith into his daily life. His arrival could inject a new dynamic into the Milan squad as they look to rebuild.
Though he initially thrived at Real Madrid, making 85 appearances in his first two seasons, a serious knee injury in December 2023 significantly impacted his playing time. He has made only 16 appearances since then. The move to Milan represents an opportunity for Alaba to secure more consistent playing time and potentially fulfill his long-held ambition of playing regularly in midfield.
