David Alaba Confirms Bayern Exit as Premier League Clubs Circle

David Alaba has confirmed he will leave the reigning Champions League and Bundesliga champions, Bayern Munich, following months of speculation regarding his playing future.

The Austrian international released a statement yesterday, Tuesday, announcing he will leave the German giants once the season concludes.

This will be the end for the highly decorated defender’s journey at the Allianz Arena, whose 13 years at the club saw him become a central figure in their recent success, which includes two Champions League titles as well as nine Bundesliga titles.

The 28-year-old had moved from left-back to a more central role at centre-back in recent seasons but has been unable to make a meaningful impression on current manager Hans-Dieter Flick.

Rumours as to his next playing destination have been fuelled by the defender’s recent announcement, with both Chelsea and Manchester City among five rumoured clubs who have tabled offers.

Unsurprisingly, attracting Alaba has become a top priority for Europe’s elite, with the defender yet to enter his prime.

Outside of the Premier League, it is believed Real Madrid, Barcelona and PSG are still in the running for the Austrian international.

The front runners said to be Los Blancos (read the full report from The Top Flight here). Having made the UEFA team of the year three times Alaba’s ability is unquestioned.

Here are some potential Premier League suitors for Alaba’s signature:

Chelsea – Always ready to hijack big-name signings from their rivals

Chelsea have been revived under the newly appointed Thomas Touchel, winning four of their last five games.

Their defence has also been revived, however, Touchel will no doubt be looking to upgrade his defensive depth at Stamford Bridge.

Alaba would perfectly suit Chelsea’s new playing style, with his ability to break up play as part of a high defensive line, as well as his ability to play a possession style of play.

A centre-back who has the composure and passing range of Alaba would be a seamless fit alongside ball-winning defenders such as Antonio Rüdiger and Thiago Silva.

Manchester City – Always in the loop when big players become free agents 

Alaba’s ability to play multiple positions will no doubt be a tantalising proposition for Pep Guardiola.

Guardiola himself is renowned for his adaptability and will be well accustomed to Alaba’s style, having previously coached him during his tenure at Bayern Munich.

One of the few weaknesses of the Citizens is the lack of a consistent left-back, with both Zinchenko and Benjamin Mendy sharing minutes in defence.

The acquisition of David Alaba would only further improve City’s back four, a defence which has managed to keep the most clean sheets so far this season (14).

Liverpool – One of the strongest linked Premier League clubs

Despite signing Ben Davies and former Schalke defender Ozan Kabak, the Reds could still be in the hunt for a permanent defensive partner to Virgil Van Dijk.

Alaba and Van Dijk would be a formidable duo in the Premier League, both possessing great passing and defensive ability.

With existing injuries to Van Dijk and Joe Gomez, Liverpool may want to act quickly to repair their position on the league table for next season and seasons to come, as the Reds currently sit at sixth.

Manchester United – Searching for an experienced world-class defender 

Manchester United would have no issue acquiring the necessary funds to satisfy Alaba’s sought wages, with the English giants requiring more stability at the back.

The inconsistency thus far of Harry Mcguire, Victor Lindelöf and Eric Bailly, will no doubt have manager Ole Gunnar Solskjær seeking a defensive signing.

With Alaba’s experience playing at the centre-back position and technical ability on the ball, the signing of the Austrian International would be a massive improvement on their underperforming back four.

What club do you think is winning the race for Alaba’s signature? Which Premier Club needs a signing such as Alaba? Make sure to sound off in the comments section below!