David Alaba has emerged as a transfer target for Lazio after the Austrian centre-back became available on the free market following his departure from Real Madrid. Italian outlet Il Messaggero reports the Serie A club are actively searching for defensive reinforcements after Alessio Romagnoli departed for Al-Sadd in Qatar this week.
Lazio's Defensive Overhaul
Gennaro Gattuso's side have made an impressive start to the campaign, winning both opening Serie A fixtures without conceding a goal to sit sixth in the standings. The Biancocelesti have deployed Oliver Provstgaard and Danilo Doekhi as their central defensive pairing, but sporting director Angelo Fabiani confirmed the club remains vigilant for quality additions. "The market for players without a contract remains open," Fabiani stated. "I preferred to keep a few places in the squad free in order to monitor such situations closely."
Alaba's availability aligns perfectly with Lazio's strategy. The 34-year-old has been without a club since his Real Madrid contract expired in June after five seasons in the Spanish capital. Despite consistent speculation linking him to various clubs—including Al-Sadd, Inter Miami, and a nostalgic return to Red Bull Salzburg—the Austrian international remains unsigned.
Proven Pedigree and Recent Form
Alaba demonstrated his enduring quality at the 2024 World Cup, captaining Austria through the tournament despite ongoing injury struggles that have plagued his recent years. The defender accumulated 117 international caps and started every match for his nation, including their round of 32 exit against eventual winners Spain. His career resume speaks volumes: ten Bundesliga titles with Bayern Munich, two Champions League trophies at the Bavarian club, and two additional European crowns with Real Madrid.
However, a serious knee injury sustained in December 2023 significantly disrupted his availability. He missed 109 matches across club and country during his recovery period, fundamentally altering the trajectory of his final years in Madrid. While Il Messaggero's report indicates Lazio's interest, the outlet notes no concrete negotiations have yet materialised between the parties. Whether the Roman club will pursue this opportunity depends on their injury situation and budget constraints as the transfer window progresses.
