It has been an inch-perfect start for Barcelona to the new campaign in Spain. The Catalans have put in some top-notch performances under the stewardship of Ernesto Valverde and are looking stronger with every passing day. But the manager is not totally convinced with his squad and wants to rectify certain positions.
According to reports, Valverde wants to bring left-back Marcos Alonso from Chelsea in January. The former Athletic Bilbao manager has a more than capable squad at his disposal, but he does not seem impressed with Jordi Alba’s performance on the left side.
The Spanish international hasn’t shown the consistency Valverde has been craving for and he is now looking for an upgrade. His back up, Lucas Digne doesn’t have the quality to match up with the current Barcelona side and thus the need of a left back has become evident.
Valverde has shortlisted a number of candidates which includes Alex Sandro, Jose Gaya, Raphael Guerreiro and Marc Cucurella but Alonso tops his list. The Italian has been sensational since he arrived in England from Fiorentina.
The 26-year-old defender made a shaky start to his Blues career but went on to hit a new level last season as they conquered the Premier League title with sheer perfection. Conte has been an avid admirer and it would need some serious convincing from Valverde to lure him to the Nou Camp.
Alonso seems to be happy in England but he has already made up his mind that he would like to finish his career in Spain and Barcelona could use this opportunity to price him away. “I’m very happy at Chelsea but I would like to return to play in Spain one day”
“Obviously, before I retire I would like to play in La Liga because I haven’t played much there,” he said in a recent interview.
With Chelsea currently struggling at this moment, Alonso might want to ponder over his future at the Stamford Bridge. Chelsea opened their account with a defeat and have lost three games so far which has dented their hopes of retaining their title.
Alonso has given the wingback role a new mould and his contribution last season was very pivotal for Chelsea’s impressive run. Wingbacks need to be equally effective in both attack and in defence and Alonso can perform these duties pretty consistently.
Barcelona are yet to lodge a formal offer and it remains to be seen if Alonso is tempted to make the switch but is he a good fit for Barcelona?
