Reason why Real Madrid are not in favour of signing a centre-back in January – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid are placing significant hope in the return of David Alaba, which is expected to happen in January. This has led the club to decide against entering the market for a new defender during the winter transfer window, reports AS.

Alaba’s recovery has been a hot topic in recent weeks, with much speculation about when exactly he will be fit again.

While an exact date remains unclear, there is growing optimism that he could be available to play at the start of January. If this timeline proves accurate, it would significantly alter the club’s defensive situation.

A much-needed boost

Alaba’s return would ease the pressure on Real Madrid to find a centre-back in the winter transfer market. With the defender back in the squad, he would join Antonio Rudiger, Aurelien Tchouameni and Raul Acensio in the heart of the defence.

This would provide the team with several viable options in defence, reducing the immediate need for reinforcements.

David Alaba will return in January. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

Recent updates from the club show that Alaba is making steady progress in his recovery. After almost a year of injury recovery, he has started to touch the ball again, marking a key milestone in his rehabilitation.

Real Madrid are cautious

Real Madrid are being cautious about confirming a specific date for his return, especially given that his recovery has been delayed twice already. However, with the start of 2025 approaching, the club is hopeful that Alaba’s return is now within sight.

Alaba’s recovery is particularly important as Real Madrid’s defence has been severely impacted by injuries in recent months. With Alaba set to turn 33 next June, he will enter the final year of his contract.

The club plans to assess his form during the second half of the season before making any decisions about his future. Given his age, it’s likely that any contract extension will be for a single year at a time, in line with the club’s policy for players over 30.