Real Madrid set aside €8 million to sign David Alaba replacement – report | OneFootball

With 2026 already upon us, it is time for Real Madrid to start building the blueprint of their defence next season.

Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba’s contracts expire at the end of the season, while Eder Militao has struggled with injuries, thus accentuating the need for defensive reinforcements.

While Real Madrid have been linked with moves for top-rated defenders such as Nico Schlotterbeck and Marc Guehi, the club are also looking to secure the services of a relatively cheaper replacement for Alaba.

Real Madrid set budget for Alaba replacement

According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid have already set a budget of €8 million in order to sign David Alaba’s replacement next summer.

However, the club won’t actually be finding a top defensive option for €8 million on the market. Instead, they will simply buy back Jacobo Ramon, the former youth player.

Jacobo Ramon has emerged as a replacement for Alaba. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

A centre-back by trade, Ramon has enjoyed immense success following his move to Como and has now emerged as a key component in Cesc Fabregas’ defensive unit.

Thanks to a special clause, Real Madrid will be able to bring back Ramon for a fee of €8 million next summer, with the young Spaniard designated to become Alaba’s replacement.

The Austrian international is set to leave the Santiago Bernabeu at the end of the season, after having struggled with countless injuries in the past two years.

Real Madrid, therefore, won’t be handing out a contract extension to Alaba. In contrast, the club have full conviction in Ramon, and it is now entirely possible the youngster could return to the Bernabeu alongside his Como teammate Nico Paz.

Real Madrid can settle the entire operation in less than €20 million, potentially making it one of the club’s greatest bargains in recent memory.