In a recent report, Mundo Deportivo has mentioned that Barcelona are showing interest in Valencia left-back Jose Gaya this summer. It has been revealed that the Catalans are keeping tabs on the Spanish defensive ace ahead of a potential move during this summer transfer window (via Mundo Deportivo).
Gaya’s Impressive Form At The Mestalla Stadium
The Pendreguer-born full-back managed to establish himself as a productive performer from the left side of Valencia’s defence. He did well to help his team steer clear of the relegation zone during the 2020-21 La Liga campaign.
Gaya has featured in 34 matches for the Spanish outfit this term, netting one goal and providing seven assists in various competitions. The 26-year-old deserves a pat on the back for influencing the game in both halves based on his average of 1.8 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 1.5 clearances, 0.7 shots, 1.1 key passes, 0.5 crosses and 1.0 dribbles per 90 minutes in La Liga this season. He has even distributed the ball relatively well from the left flank after completing 82.1% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
The Spaniard is currently at the peak of his career and has shown plenty of maturity throughout the recently concluded La Liga campaign. Hence, it is no wonder that Barca are showing interest in securing his services as he will be an excellent long-term replacement for Jordi Alba at the Nou Camp.
Will Gaya Be A Good Choice For The Catalans?
Gaya is blessed with electric pace that helps him complete a few energetic dribbles down the left flank. He loves to get forward and make overlapping runs to get to the byline. The Spaniard is a decent crosser of the ball but needs to work on improving his shooting from long range.
The Valencia captain is a natural leader who can pick up a lot of important assists for his team. Gaya has also proven his worth as a reliable defensive presence inside his half as he can time his tackles well to earn the ball back for his team
Thus, we can expect the 14-time Spain international to add some natural width to Barca’s first team. Furthermore, he is arguably playing at a higher level than Jordi Alba, so the Catalans would be better off getting the Valencia star on board this summer as he will be a great signing for them in the long run.
Gaya’s acquisition will be a big statement from the Catalan giants as they need to bring in some quality players like him if they are to have a strong squad capable of mounting a title challenge next season. The Spaniard fits the bill perfectly and would be a decent choice for Barca to consider ahead of the new campaign.
