According to the player’s father and his agent, Bayern Munich left-back David Alaba is attracting interest from Real Madrid.
The season ended in disappointment for Bayern Munich as they succumbed to a 3-1 defeat against Eintracht Frankfurt in the DFB Pokal final on Saturday. Bayern now turn their attention to the transfer market, as they look to bring more than one trophy next season.
There is no need for a complete overhaul at Bayern, but they might need a couple of players to freshen up the squad. However, they also have to handle some high profile departures as well. David Alaba is the latest player whose name has been placed in the rumor mill. His father and agent spoke to AS about Real Madrid’s interest in signing the left-back.
"“Everyone knows that Real Madrid are really interested in David, but we can’t say anything right now.“We’ll see what happens in the summer. Now isn’t the moment to discuss who is interested in him. Everyone already knows of Madrid’s interest, it’s no secret. But right now there’s nothing to say. He has to wait and see at the end of the season.”"
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Alaba has previously admitted that he might look for a new adventure in the future. The Austrian left-back came through the ranks at Bayern. Since his debut in 2011, he has been a key member of Bayern’s first team. He has played a crucial role in winning all the trophies till now. At the age of 25, Alaba is considered one of the best left-backs in Europe.
The Austrian international can also slot in various positions if needed. He can play in the heart of defense and also as a midfielder. Alaba recently admitted that he is likely to remain in Munich for next season. His current contract has three years left, which allows Bayern to be in a strong position if Real Madrid eventually make their move.
Bayern Munich might look for cover at left-back this summer anyway, as Juan Bernat is likely to leave the club.
Alaba remains a pivotal player for the club despite a little drop in form in the past two years. However, under Niko Kovac, Alaba might get a new role as the Croatian prefers to play with wingbacks.
Real Madrid are also reportedly interested in Bayern’s talismanic forward Robert Lewandowski. Since hiring Pini Zahavi as his new agent, Lewandowski has been linked non-stop with the Spanish giants. Bayern have rubbished these reports, though, and maintained the stance that they are unlikely to sell their star players to European rivals.
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Bayern Munich have failed to win the Champions League, or even reach the final, since the historic treble in 2013.. The Bavarians came close to reaching final this season after a spirited performance against Real Madrid, but still fell short. Bayern need to add more quality to the squad and avoid selling their key players to European rivals this summer. The German champions sold Toni Kroos in 2014 and the midfielder has helped Bayern’s Spanish rivals dominate Europe in the past four years. They need to keep hold of Alaba and Lewandowski if they wish to be contenders for the Champions League once again.