Real Madrid plan ahead as David Alaba exit could reduce wage costs

Real Madrid are preparing for life after David Alaba, with the defender’s expected summer departure set to significantly ease the club’s soaring wage bill.

Reports from Spain suggest Los Blancos will save close to €25 million once the Austrian’s salary and associated costs are removed at the end of the season. That financial breathing room is viewed as crucial as the club plans its next squad rebuild.

Alaba has struggled to maintain his status as a key figure in Madrid’s defence, with persistent injuries disrupting his rhythm and limiting his impact in recent campaigns. He has made 14 appearances in all competitions this season, underlining how rarely he has been available at full fitness.

The club hierarchy now see his exit as an opportunity to rejuvenate the backline with a new top-level centre-back who can be integrated without major financial hurdles.

According to the same report, Alaba’s agent Pini Zahavi has already opened talks with several Italian clubs over a possible free transfer once his deal runs down. A move to Serie A would mark a fresh chapter for the former Bayern Munich star, whose time in Madrid has mixed early success with long injury lay-offs.