Real Madrid ready to buy out veteran star’s contract and let him leave; player not keen on potential option: Reports

In a surprising turn of events at the Santiago Bernabéu, Real Madrid are reportedly prepared to buy out the contract of one of their veteran stars, signaling the potential end of a storied chapter in the club’s illustrious history. According to multiple reports emerging from Spain, the player in question is David Alaba, and while the club seems ready to facilitate a dignified exit, the Austrian international is not entirely on board with the proposed solution.

The 33-year-old versatile defender has seen his role diminish under new head coach Xabi Alonso, who is restructuring the team around a younger core. Despite his leadership and experience, Alaba has struggled to stay fully fit over the past two seasons, often sidelined with muscular issues that have made his availability unpredictable.

Real Madrid’s decision reportedly stems from a desire to create space for incoming talents while managing their wage bill in accordance with La Liga’s financial regulations. The club is keen to handle the situation respectfully, offering Alaba the full remainder of his contract payout if he agrees to a mutual termination.

However, Alaba, known for his strong character and loyalty, is reportedly not keen on leaving through a backdoor exit. The Austrian international, who joined Los Blancos from Bayern Munich in 2021 on a free transfer, still believes he can contribute at the highest level and is reluctant to walk away from a club where he feels he hasn’t yet completed his mission.

Sources close to the situation suggest that Alaba would prefer to stay and fight for his place, especially with Real Madrid once again competing on multiple fronts this season, including La Liga, the Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup. With the retirement of veterans like Toni Kroos and the possible departure of Luka Modrić, Alaba sees an opportunity to step into a leadership role both on and off the pitch.

Still, the technical staff under Xabi Alonso seems to have other plans. The club is reportedly prioritizing the development of younger central defenders like Éder Militão, Antonio Rüdiger, and the newly signed Leny Yoro, who is expected to play a significant role moving forward. Alaba’s path to regular minutes looks increasingly blocked, particularly if Madrid proceed with their preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.

In addition to playing time concerns, there’s the issue of Alaba’s salary. He remains one of the highest-paid defenders at the club, and in a summer where Real Madrid are still managing the aftershocks of high-profile spending — including the mega transfer of Kylian Mbappé — trimming the wage bill is a practical priority.

From a legacy standpoint, Alaba’s contributions can’t be understated. He played a pivotal role in the club’s 2022 Champions League triumph and was instrumental during their La Liga-winning campaign that same season. His leadership, versatility, and winning mentality were immediately felt in the dressing room and on the field.

If Alaba does choose to part ways, there’s already reported interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia, MLS, and Serie A — all leagues that have become increasingly attractive for veteran European stars. However, Alaba’s priority remains European football at the highest level, which may complicate negotiations.

While no final decision has been made, the coming weeks could be decisive. Real Madrid would prefer to resolve the situation before the La Liga season kicks off to avoid distractions, while Alaba is said to be taking his time to evaluate whether staying and potentially playing a reduced role is worth it — or whether a new chapter elsewhere makes more sense.

For now, the situation hangs in the balance, but what’s clear is that this could mark the end of another important era at Real Madrid. Whether Alaba stays to fight or chooses a graceful exit, his legacy at the Bernabéu is already secure. But in a summer of change and transition, even legends must face the ticking clock of elite football.