Jordi Alba’s Barcelona Exit Difficult This Term
Reuters / Benoit Tessier
Premier League giants Manchester United are said to be interested in the services of Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba. However, according to reports in ESPN FC, the Catalans are said to have let United know that a deal will be difficult this summer.
Jordi Alba has been an important member of the Barca squad in recent years, and he has also been a regular with Spain. The flamboyant decorated left-back was used sparingly by former manager Luis Enrique last season, though, and the player featured in 39 matches in a difficult season for the Spanish giants.
Alba was said to be settled at the Nou Camp, but after Ernesto Valverde’s appointment as manager, he is keen to stay there.
Meanwhile, Jose Mourinho has options in that position, as he rotated his players well in a hectic season.
Jose had been critical of Luke Shaw last season, having raised an issue with the youngster’s mental approach. But reports state that Shaw is still expected to be the future prominent left back and this season will be crucial for him to express himself on the pitch.
Shaw, who is nursing an injury, will take several months to return, and so will versatile defender Marcos Rojo. In their absence, United do have options such as Matteo Darmian, Daley Blind and Ashley Young, but they aren’t natural left-backs.
In addition, Jose will look up to 20-year-old Cameron Borthwick-Jackson, who will be given a chance to impress in the summer tour. The young starlet signed a long-term contract last summer after breaking into the team under Louis van Gaal, and spent last season on loan at Wolves, where he made just 7 appearances.
If any of these desired options fail to get off the block this season, then United could be tempted to make a serious approach for Alba next summer.
Written by Rajdeep Saha 
Sports journalist with stints across print, digital and television. Contribution to each medium has been thrilling. Experienced in writing for this passionate game called football. Journalist by choice and passion.