Real Madrid ‘closing in’ on Alaba transfer to beat Premier League clubs to star

Real Madrid are in pole position to sign David Alaba, according to reports from Spain, in news which will come as a blow to a host of Premier League giants.

Alaba, 28, is out of contract with Bayern Munich at the end of the season and has failed to agree to new terms with the Bundesliga champions.

Negotiations between the Austrian defender's representatives and Bayern chiefs became increasingly hostile before they broke down altogether over his eye-watering wage demands.

Manchester United, Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea were linked with moves for Alaba, who is free to sign a pre-contract with clubs outside of Germany during the newly-opened January transfer window.

But Marca claims Real Madrid are leading the race for the two-time Champions League winner.

The report adds Los Blancos are keen to avoid drawn-out negotiations and have already tabled a four-year contract for Alaba worth €10million (£8.9million) per year.

Real are well aware other European giants could swoop if talks are protracted, but they are confident the player will be satisfied by the terms offered.

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Though he is a natural left-back, Alaba has shone as a centre-back in recent seasons and frequently plays in a variety of midfield roles for Austria.

His versatility – as well as commanding no transfer fee next summer – is a key attraction to his many suitors across Europe, and his role has already reportedly been earmarked by Santiago Bernabeu chiefs.

Alaba is seen as competition for starting centre-backs Raphael Varane and Sergio Ramos, while he could assume the latter's starting role should the Spaniard depart next summer.

Manchester United were among Alaba's keenest suitors in England, but The Athletic claims the Red Devils cooled their interest after learning of his hefty wage demands.

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