Manchester United given a boost in their pursuit of David Alaba

Manchester United target David Alaba appeared to be on his way to Real Madrid in the summer. However, a move seems to be far from done. According to German publication Bild (h/t Express), the Red Devils still retain a chance of signing the Austrian superstar.

Alaba is out of contract with Bayern Munich in the summer and is available to sign a pre-contract agreement. Still in the prime of his career, the chance to sign a player of his pedigree on a Bosman does not come very often.

With the player appearing to be on his way to Real Madrid, United looked to have lost out on a fantastic opportunity. While the 28-year-old has a strong desire to represent Los Blancos, he might be open to moving to the Premier League.

A major reason for him looking elsewhere is the lack of progression in negotiations with Real. This has also alerted Barcelona to the player’s availability.

United are not one of the frontrunners for Alaba and will face tough competition from Chelsea, should he choose to move to the Premier League.

The Domino effect?

Interestingly Alaba’s situation impacts the futures of three players United are linked with. The Red Devils have also been linked with Real Madrid star Sergio Ramos and RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano.

Real are keen to replace Ramos with Alaba while Bayern Munich are keen to replace the latter with Upamecano. There is a real possibility that United could end up with none of them in a situation that is reminiscent of trades in the NBA.

It is not to say that the club does not have options to fall back to. One of them being Sevilla star Jules Kounde.

More Manchester United News

• Paul Pogba appears to be on his way out of Manchester United
• Manchester United keeping tabs on Max Aarons to compete with Aaron Wan-Bissaka
• Manchester United prepared to go big to land Sergio Ramos this summer

It is no secret that United need a dependable defensive partner for Harry Maguire. With a number of them set to be on the move this summer, it remains to be seen who we bring in.