Just when you thought the transfer merry-go-round had settled down, David Alaba has delivered one of the most unexpected moves of the season. The former Bayern Munich and Real Madrid defender has landed in Rome, completed his medical, and is now on the verge of becoming a Udinese player. If you thought a two-time Champions League winner joining a mid-table Serie A club sounded far-fetched, buckle up, because this story is very real and getting more exciting by the hour.
Alaba Arrives at Villa Stuart for Medical Tests
Reports confirmed that Alaba landed in Italy and underwent his medical examination at Villa Stuart, the legendary Rome clinic widely regarded as the most trusted sports medical centre in the country, where countless top clubs send their signings for final checks. According to multiple outlets including Sky Sport Italia, the tests came back clean, with no issues flagged, giving Alaba the green light to travel north to Udine to put pen to paper on his new contract.
Given the injury troubles that plagued the final stretch of his Real Madrid career, this was not just a routine formality. It was a genuinely important hurdle, and clearing it means this deal is now firmly on track.
From Real Madrid Icon to Udinese’s New Leader
Alaba became a free agent on July 1, 2026, after his five-year spell at Real Madrid officially came to an end. During his time at the Bernabeu, he made 131 appearances and collected an incredible 11 trophies, including two Champions League titles, two LaLiga crowns, two Club World Cups, and a Copa del Rey. Before that, he spent over a decade establishing himself as one of Europe’s most versatile defenders at Bayern Munich, making more than 400 appearances and lifting the Champions League twice.
Despite being linked with clubs across the globe, including Union Berlin, Club America, Inter Miami, and Al-Sadd, the 34-year-old has instead chosen a fresh challenge in Udine. It is a move that has raised plenty of eyebrows, but for a Udinese side that has already conceded 11 goals in just five Serie A matches this season, adding a player with Alaba’s pedigree, leadership, and big-game experience makes complete sense.
A Nod to One Iconic Moment
Udinese even teased the signing in style, posting an image of a chair on social media, an unmistakable reference to Alaba’s unforgettable celebration after Real Madrid’s stunning Champions League comeback against Paris Saint-Germain in 2022. It is a small but clever detail that shows Udinese fans already understand exactly what kind of big-moment player they are getting.
What Happens Next
With his medical successfully completed, Alaba is expected to officially sign his contract in Udine before beginning training with his new teammates under head coach Kosta Runjaic. His first potential appearance could come after the international break, with Udinese scheduled to travel to face Torino on October 12.
Why This Transfer Matters
For Udinese, this is a statement signing. Bringing in a proven winner with Champions League pedigree instantly upgrades their defensive experience and locker room leadership. For Alaba, it represents a fresh start away from the pressures of Europe’s traditional powerhouses, a chance to rebuild fitness, form, and confidence on his own terms.
Whatever happens next, one thing is certain. David Alaba’s move to Udinese is shaping up to be one of the most fascinating free transfer stories of the season, and fans everywhere will be watching closely to see how it unfolds.
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