Austrian international David Alaba has travelled to Italy as he closes in on a move to Serie A side Udinese as a free agent.
The experienced defender is expected to complete the final formalities of the transfer after undergoing his medical examinations, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
Romano reported on Wednesday that Alaba had completed his medical and was set to finalise his move to the Italian club. Udinese had also confirmed the development.
“David Alaba completes medical at Udinese after several options in Italy,” Romano posted on X.
The move follows an earlier report from Romano that the former Real Madrid player had reached a verbal agreement with Udinese, with the Serie A club viewing his arrival as a major addition to their squad.
Alaba left Real Madrid after his contract with the Spanish giants expired at the end of last season. He joined Madrid in 2021 after an impressive spell with Bayern Munich, where he won several major trophies and established himself as a highly versatile defender.
The 33-year-old can operate in central defence, at left-back and in midfield. However, injuries affected his availability during his later years at Real Madrid.
Alaba was born in Vienna to an Austrian mother, Gina, and Nigerian father, George Alaba. Despite his Nigerian roots, he has represented Austria internationally throughout his senior career.
His arrival at Udinese will add experience to the club’s backline and see him become teammates with Nigerian goalkeeper Maduka Okoye.
Okoye joined Udinese from Watford in August 2023 on a four-year deal and has continued to feature for the Serie A club while remaining part of Nigeria’s national team setup.
