Bayern Munich’s hopes of keeping David Alaba received a massive boost.
It is a big day for Bayern Munich as they gear up for the big game against Barcelona in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. Ahead of this game, Die Roten has received a major boost in securing the future of one of their star players.
According to Sport1’s Florian Plettenberg, Bayern held positive talks with David Alaba‘s agent in Lisbon regarding a contract extension. The club officials met with Pini Zahavi in Lisbon, but there is still work to do as there is not total agreement, but both parties want to extend Alaba’s contract.
Meanwhile, Sky Sports is reporting that Die Roten made it clear in this meeting that they want to keep Alaba, but the club couldn’t come up with an offer that will satisfy the player’s demands. It has been widely reported that Alaba’s camp is firm on their wage demands.
Alaba has been tight-lipped regarding his future ever since it emerged that he had rejected the club’s initial offer. He even appointed a new agent, fuelling speculation about his future in Bavaria. His contract situation has been closely monitored by various top clubs across Europe, in case Die Roten might have to cash in if he doesn’t sign a new deal.
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The Austrian defender has been a mainstay as left-back in Die Roten’s team since making his debut in 2010. He excelled under various managers to become one of the best left-backs in Europe. Alaba is a solid defender with great passing range and deadball qualities.
Due to an injury crisis in defense, Alaba was moved into central defense this season. He excelled in this position, providing the team an ideal base to build attacks from deep. His ability on the ball helped Die Roten to progress the play better. Moreover, he doesn’t look out of place defensively against best forwards. It will be interesting to see how he contains Luis Suarez against Barcelona.
Since Alaba has been playing for so long, it feels like he is past his prime. That is not the case, though, he is still 28. Die Roten knows how difficult it will be to find a replacement for Alaba, so they are doing everything possible to keep him at the club.
The coronavirus pandemic may have tilted Alaba’s contractual situation in Rekordmeister’s favour. Since many clubs will not be spending big this summer, Alaba is unlikely to get a big move. Today’s meeting in Lisbon is a big step in the right direction from Die Roten’s perspective to secure Alaba’s future.