In a recent report, Sport stated that Barcelona are eyeing a move for Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara. It has been claimed that the Catalan club are eager to bring the Spaniard back to the Nou Camp in the upcoming January transfer window.
Thiago’s Injury-Plagued Season At Anfield
Thiago is yet to make an appearance for Liverpool this season as he has been sidelined due to a serious injury. The Spanish midfielder made 97 appearances for the Reds so far, scoring three goals and securing six assists on all fronts.
The Italy-born talent was a positive influence at the centre of the park in the previous campaign when he averaged 2.4 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 0.7 clearances, 0.6 shots, 0.9 key passes and 1.2 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He even distributed the ball accurately from midfield after completing 86.5% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Merseyside club will run out at the end of this campaign which could open the door for Barca to re-sign him on a cut-price deal in the winter transfer window.
Is Thiago A Good Option For Barcelona Boss Xavi?
Thiago is a tough-tackling midfielder who can make some important interceptions for his side when he is playing well on the pitch. He can clear the danger when needed and is an excellent passer of the ball as well. The Spanish sensation has got the vision to create some decent plays for others around him and can make some driving runs with the ball from midfield. He can even shoot the ball with venom from long range.
At the moment, Thiago is facing an uncertain future at Liverpool as he is on an expiring contract. Plus, he has endured his fair share of injuries during his spell at Merseyside. Hence, Barcelona boss Xavi should focus on signing him on the cheap this January.
Thiago will definitely enhance the quality of Barca‘s first XI and help the Catalan club challenge across all competitions over the next couple of years. At 32, he won’t be a long-term fix to Xavi’s midfield problems. However, there is no denying that Thiago would be a great role model for the likes of Pedri and Gavi which makes him a worthy option for Barcelona to consider this winter.
