1. FC Union Berlin have been linked with a move for free agent defender David Alaba. The club has the league's worst defensive record after conceding 17 goals in four matches, leaving them 17th in the Bundesliga with just one point.
According to information obtained by the Berliner Zeitung, sporting director Horst Heldt is exploring the possibility of signing the 34-year-old Austrian. Alaba has been without a contract since his deal with Real Madrid expired on June 30. The ten-time Austrian Footballer of the Year won four Champions League titles with Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.
Defensive struggles clear
The search for a stable defensive pairing is urgent for Union. Three different centre-back pairings have been used across the four matches without success. A 7-0 defeat away to Bayern Munich on September 18 highlighted the issues. Manager Nenad Bjelica currently has five central defenders at his disposal: Leopold Querfeld, Zeno Van Den Bosch, Felix Uduokhai, Marvin Friedrich and Stanley Nsoki. The full squad list shows the available options.
Despite the rumours, a move to Köpenick for Alaba is considered unlikely. His father and agent George Alaba confirmed there has been international interest. "There have been numerous enquiries. In the USA, in Europe, everywhere," said George Alaba. On his son's future, he added: "He will announce soon how things will continue. He is doing excellently."
A return to the Bundesliga with Union Berlin for Alaba is nonetheless ruled out. The club must address its defensive frailties with existing resources. The next test comes at home against seventh-placed SV Elversberg on October 10. Union Berlin have scored four goals this season, with Tim Skarke their top scorer on two.
The report in full is at Berliner Zeitung
