Alaba responds to Barcelona and Real Madrid links

David Lynch

• Updated: 23 May 2023 08:40 CDT
• 2 min read

Bayern Munich star David Alaba has insisted he is not thinking about his uncertain future amid links with Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The 28-year-old is set to bring a 13-year stay in Bavaria to an end this summer when his contract expires, with negotiations over an extension having ended long ago.

Spain’s two biggest clubs are believed to be leading the chase for his signature, though Alaba is yet to announce where he will end up.

However, when asked about that topic at a press conference on Wedesday, the defender revealed that his next move is not his top priority this week.

Instead, it is the start of a qualifying campaign he hopes will see Austria reach the World Cup for the first time since 1998.

Alaba in the Bundesliga 2020-21

Asked about the transfer rumours, he replied: “I’ve not paid any attention to it. I’m only thinking about the present and focusing on the national team.”

Austria begin their road to the World Cup against Scotland on Thursday, and Alaba is more determined than ever to fulfil his ambition to play on international football’s biggest stage.

“It’s no secret that playing at a World Cup is a priority for me and for the country,” he added.

“We know we have the quality to achieve that.

“It’s really important to me because it’s a huge honour to play for my country.

“We want to do better than in 2016. I’m ambitious. Every game and every trophy matters to me.”