In a recent report, Sport has stated that Barcelona are eyeing a move for Atalanta left-back Robin Gosens this summer. It is understood that the Catalan outfit has identified the German defender as one of the options to replace Jordi Alba at the Nou Camp in the long run (via Sport).
Gosens’ Excellent Numbers In Italian Football This Season
Gosens has enjoyed an impressive season in Italian football as he has put in a series of influential displays on the left side of Gian Piero Gasperini’s defence. The German talent has featured in 44 matches for the Italian giants this term, scoring 12 goals and securing eight assists in multiple competitions.
The 26-year-old has made a positive impact at both ends of the field after he averaged 1.4 tackles, 1.3 interceptions, 1.0 clearances, 1.6 shots, 0.9 interceptions and 0.8 dribbles per game in Serie A this season. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball from the left flank, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 81.8% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
At 26, Gosens is currently playing some of the best football of his playing career, so Barca will do well to acquire his services during this summer transfer period. He will be a perfect man to replace Jordi Alba, who is entering the twilight years of his career.
What Will The Dutch Defender Add To Ronald Koeman’s Side?
Gosens boasts electric pace which he makes full use of when running at full swing towards the opposition penalty box. He can be a hard man to catch in a 1v1 foot chase and excels at striking the ball with power and accuracy from long range. The Dutch sensation is a good crosser of the ball and has transformed himself into a reliable presence at the back. He is primarily a left-back but is also versatile enough to fill in as a left-winger if needed.
The Emmerich-born sensation is a decent tackler of the ball and can pull off some crucial interceptions for his team. Hence, we can expect Gosens to add some creativity and goals to Koeman’s first XI. He could even add more bite and steel to Barca’s backline as he is currently a more accomplished defender than Jordi Alba.
Gosens ticks all the right boxes in terms of what Koeman is looking for in a left-back. Plus, the Dutch head coach could be the ideal man to oversee the development of his fellow countryman at the Nou Camp in the coming seasons. Hence, the Catalans should try everything in their power to lure Gosens to Spanish football in this off-season.
