Real Madrid have made a decision regarding the futures of Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba

Following a disappointing season, Real Madrid are looking to shake up their strategy under Xabi Alonso. This will be achieved through the transfer window with the arrivals of Dean Huijsen, Trent Alexander-Arnold and young talents Álvaro Carreras and Franco Mastantuono. However, the most challenging aspect will be managing the existing squad. Most notably, Vinicius Jr. has still not extended his contract and is approaching the end of his time with the Merengues.

But that’s not all, as some high-salaried players are causing headaches for the Madrid management. This is particularly the case with David Alaba, the 33-year-old Austrian defender who has been unable to recover from an injury sustained at the end of 2023. The possibility of terminating his contract early had been considered, but Alaba, who receives an annual salary of 10.5 million, one of the highest in the locker room, has reportedly rejected this option.

Real Madrid will have to wait

According to the latest information from AS, the Austrian has not received any offers, and his entourage is determined to see him stay at Real Madrid this season, despite the club seeking to facilitate his departure. Therefore, the Merengues have no choice but to wait until his contract expires at the end of next season. This is a similar situation to that of Antonio Rüdiger (32). The German defender, who was plagued by injuries last season, has lost form, and the arrival of Dean Huijsen has not helped matters.

The club greatly appreciates the German’s attitude, but the chances of him renewing his contract are slim due to his health. This is especially the case since Florentino Pérez has offered Raul Asencio (22) his first professional contract, not to mention the hope of Eder Militão’s (27) return. Real Madrid has therefore resigned itself to waiting for Alaba and Rüdiger to leave next summer, in order to completely renew its central defence. A free transfer for Ibrahima Konaté at the same time would be the dream scenario.