Manchester United have reportedly suffered a setback as it’s claimed that Bayern Munich star David Alaba would prefer a move to Arsenal.
The 24-year-old versatile Austrian international has been a key figure for the German giants in recent years, but could be ready to consider a move away from Bavaria.
However, Manchester Evening News claim that the boyhood Arsenal fan would much prefer to relocate to London with the Gunners rather than make the move to Manchester.
The report goes on to suggest that Alaba is valued at around £34m, and has emerged on United’s transfer radar as Jose Mourinho wishes to bolster his defence.
Southampton centre-half Virgil van Dijk is named in the report as another target for the Red Devils, but he supposedly has a £40m price-tag.
Given that Alaba can play in various positions and roles, he would certainly be a more than useful addition to any squad, but it remains to be seen whether or not he opts for a switch to England next year.
Given his technical quality and versatility, Alaba would be a good fit for the Arsenal squad, although Arsene Wenger is fortunate to have various options in those same positions so a move may not make sense for the Gunners.
Nevertheless, if the report is to be believed, then Arsenal are Alaba’s first choice if he does leave Bayern, forcing Mourinho to look elsewhere in his bid to strengthen his defensive options.
Eric Bailly is currently sidelined with a knee injury and will be absent in January due to the African Cup of Nations, while the likes of Chris Smalling and Luke Shaw have been publicly criticised this season which in turn has raised doubts over whether or not Mourinho will rely on them in the long-term.