In a recent report, Mundo Deportivo has revealed that Barcelona are considering AFC Ajax left-back Nicolas Tagliafico as a potential target for this summer transfer window. It is believed that the Argentine defender wants to leave the Dutch club this summer which could open the door for the Catalan outfit to land him (via Mundo Deportivo).
Tagliafico’s Solid Season At Johan Cruijff ArenA
Tagliafico struggled to perform at his best for Ajax over the past ten months but has still managed to put in a few eye-catching displays for them on the left wing. The 28-year-old participated in 40 matches for the Dutch giants last season, finding the back of the net once and grabbing four assists in various competitions.
The Argentine sensation deserves a lot of plaudits for influencing the game in both halves after he averaged 2.0 tackles, 1.9 interceptions, 1.2 clearances, 1.5 shots and 1.1 key passes per game in the Dutch Eredivisie. He has even been accurate with his ball distribution based on his pass completion rate of 82.7% in the Dutch first division (stats via whoscored).
Taglialifo is still under contract with the Amsterdam club until the summer of 2023, so Erik ten Hag will be under no pressure to cash in on him this summer. However, a potential move to Barcelona could be too tempting for the player to turn down if the Catalans decide to launch a concrete offer for him in this off-season.
Should The Catalans Move In For Tagliafico This Summer?
Tagliafico is a quick and agile presence down the left flank and can complete some promising dribbles in the opposition half. He is an excellent crosser of the ball and usually works his socks off at both ends of the pitch. The Argentine left-back is also a reliable defensive presence at the back as he can time his tackles well to secure the ball back for his side. He is not shy of clearing his lines when needed and has got a great leap in him that helps him win his fair share of aerial duels.
An accomplished full-back like Tagliafico will be a shrewd addition to Ronald Koeman’s squad as he could prove to be an upgrade over Jordi Alba at the Nou Camp. At 28, the Argentina international is currently playing at his prime, so Barca can expect to get the best out of him if they can secure his services this summer.
Tagliafico could even help the Catalans challenge for some major trophies in the coming seasons as he will undeniably enhance the quality of Koeman’s starting XI. Hence, the Spanish club should consider moving in for Tagliafico during this summer transfer period.
