Real Madrid star unlikely to feature for club until March despite being ready to return to training in January: Reports

David Alaba is set to resume training with Real Madrid in January 2025 but he's unlikely to return to action before March, as per Rodra P of Relevo. The Austrian defender sustained an ACL injury in December 2023 at Santiago Bernabeu during Los Blancos' 4-1 victory over Villarreal.

The anterior cruciate ligament injury also affected his meniscus, which increased problems for the 32-year-old. The injury also reduced cartilage in David Alaba's knee, causing the bones to rub together and create discomfort. As a result, Los Blancos are concerned whether Alaba can regain his pre-injury levels.

The Austrian defender was expected to return to action for Real Madrid after the 2024 European Championships in October. However, that did not happen as he suffered a setback in his recovery. However, as per the aforementioned report, the Los Blancos coaching staff is positive about David Alaba's return to the pitch in March.

The 32-year-old joined Real Madrid from Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich on a free transfer in July 2021. Since joining the Santiago Bernabeu outfit, he has made 102 appearances, scoring five goals and providing nine assists across all competitions.

However, Madrid are also reportedly keen to recruit more defenders in the winter transfer window. They have been linked with Bayer Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah and Inter Milan's Alessandro Bastoni. Earlier this year, they were linked with LOSC Lille's Leny Yoro, who eventually joined Manchester United.

Carlo Ancelotti to sell two Real Madrid stars if they don't improve in the ongoing season: Reports

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti is looking to offload Ferland Mendy and Fran Garcia if they don't improve before the end of the season, as per Defensa Central. Last week, French midfielder Eduardo Camavinga started in the left-back position for Los Blancos during their 4-2 win over Sevilla despite Mendy and Garcia being fit.

The LaLiga giants were previously linked with Bayern Munich's Alphonso Davies. However, after it was reported the Canadian footballer was close to signing a new contract with the Bavarians, they shifted their focus to AC Milan's Theo Hernandez.

Davies is yet to sign a contract extension with Bayern and can potentially join the Santiago Bernabeu outfit on a free transfer in the summer of 2025. Ferland Mendy's contract with the club will expire next summer while Fran Garcia's contract deal will expire in the summer of 2027.