In a recent report, Sport mentioned that Barcelona are planning to move in for Valencia left-back Jose Gaya in the summer. It is understood that the Catalan giants are eyeing a move to acquire the services of the Spanish defender whose contract at the Mestalla Stadium is set to run out in the summer of 2023.
Gaya’s Season Of Mixed Emotions In Spanish Football
Gaya has done well to put in a few eye-catching displays on the left side of Valencia’s defence. However, he has also missed a lot of important games for the Spanish side during this campaign.
The Spaniard has netted two goals and provided four assists in 19 matches for his current employers this season in all competitions. Gaya has made a positive impact in both halves as he is averaging 1.7 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, 1.8 clearances, 0.9 shots, 1.1 crosses, 0.9 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per game in La Liga.
However, the Valencia captain needs to improve his ball distribution after completing 73.8% of his attempted passes in the top tier of Spanish football (stats via whoscored).
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What Will Gaya Add To Barcelona Boss Xavi’s Team?
Gaya has got decent pace under his belt and can make some driving runs with the ball down the left flank. He is a solid tackler of the ball and can make a few crucial interceptions for his side on the defensive end of the pitch.
The Spaniard is a decent crosser of the ball and can create some inviting opportunities for others around him. He has got a great work rate but can sometimes give away the ball cheaply on the left-wing.
Still, Gaya will be a brilliant option for the Catalan outfit to pursue in the summer. He could serve as an ideal, long-term replacement for Jordi Alba who is entering the twilight years of his playing career.
At 26, the Spaniard is about to enter his prime, so Xavi can expect him to make an instant impact at the Nou Camp if he can get him on board this summer. Gaya will add a lot of quality to Barca‘s first team and could go on to become a favourite among the club’s supporters in the coming seasons.
