Is it Goodbye for Alaba and Rüdiger? Real Madrid Evaluates the Future of Their "Free Transfers"

Real Madrid could be gearing up for a significant defensive overhaul, with David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger at the center of speculation. Both defenders arrived at the club under the popular "free transfer" policy of recent years, but their future at the Santiago Bernabéu hangs in the balance as the club hasn't initiated contract renewal talks.

The Merengue directive, true to its tradition of offering one-year extensions to players over thirty, has opted for caution. The final decision on Alaba and Rüdiger's future will be postponed until the end of the upcoming season, casting uncertainty over their continued presence.

David Alaba's Difficult Situation

David Alaba appears to be in the most complicated position. The former Bayern Munich player not only faces the club's renewal policy but also holds one of the highest salaries within the squad. Documents leaked by Football Leaks and published by Der Spiegel revealed that the Austrian international earns 10.5 million euros annually. Furthermore, these leaks exposed startling figures about his arrival at Madrid, including a signing bonus of 17.7 million euros, a 5.2 million commission for his agent, Pini Zahavi, and 6.3 million for the player's father. This high salary adds extra pressure to his potential renewal.

Antonio Rüdiger's Unique Case

On the other hand, the outlook for Antonio Rüdiger is somewhat different. The club highly values the attitude and commitment the German showed last season. Rüdiger played the final third of the campaign with severe pain, needing daily anti-inflammatories to train, all to help a team depleted in defense. He finally underwent an arthroscopy after the Copa del Rey final, when his body definitively gave out, and he returned with very good sensations for the World Cup. This dedication could work in his favor in future negotiations.

Possible Replacements and Honorable Exits

Should Alaba and Rüdiger's departures materialize, Real Madrid will need to seek reinforcements in the summer transfer market. Names like Leny Yoro (Lille), Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting CP), or even the consolidation of young talents from the academy, could be options to strengthen the backline.

To manage an amicable departure, similar to how a legend like Luka Modrić's situation was handled (who opted for a one-year renewal instead of leaving, serving as an example of loyalty), the club could negotiate agreements that allow Alaba and Rüdiger to explore their futures at other major European clubs, facilitating their transition and ensuring their final seasons are with top-tier teams. This would not only honor their contributions but also maintain Real Madrid's reputation as an institution that cares for its players, even at the end of their cycle.