Real Madrid more likely than Barcelona for David Alaba?

It sounds like David Alaba is ready to leave Bayern Munich, and it sounds like Real Madrid may be his best option.

David Alaba has been an important part of Bayern Munich over the years, having once been a fixture at the left back position for Die Roten. He’s since moved into a different role at center back due to injuries, acquitting himself well at that position. So his versatility would be of value to clubs like Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, who have been linked to the Austria international.

Sport Bild’s Christian Falk reported there’s a “realistic” chance Alaba leaves this summer, as he’s looking for a raise from the club in contract negotiations. While Bayern reportedly proposed a swap deal with Manchester City for their top target Leroy Sane, who is also being targeted by Real and Barça, Alaba only has eyes on La Liga’s powerhouse clubs.

Between the two of them, Real Madrid look like the favorites. Kicker is reporting, via @iMiaSanMia, that while Alaba prefers a move to Spain, only Los Blancos look like an option for the defender.

Teams, whether Bayern or Real, will have to be careful in negotiations. Alaba’s expertise warrants a raise, but because of the rapidly-changing economic situation in football after the (likely) cancellation of games – and not just postponement – this may not occur.

Real Madrid have Marcelo and two of the best young left backs in the world in Sergio Reguilon and Ferland Mendy. If Alaba were to join Florentino Perez’s club, he would be a versatile backup in midfield, at center back, and at fullback. Alaba is too good to sit on the bench and would compete for a starting spot, but competition is fierce at Real. It’s a good thing Alaba prefers center midfield to left back, because there would be more opportunities for him there.

While Alaba is in the prime of his career and not aging by any means, Los Blancos are in the midst of a “Revolution” where they want to give young players like Fede Valverde, Eder Militao, Mendy, and Reguilon as much playing time as they can. So this is another aspect to consider when discussing links between Alaba and Real, keeping in mind the potential wages and playing time Alaba would want to command.