Barcelona have not lost track of on-loan star despite targeting a top signing

Barcelona’s left-back position has long been dominated by Alejandro Balde, who has become a vital player for the team. However, the club is reportedly exploring backup options to reinforce this area. 

Adding to the news, a report from Miguel Rico (h/t FCB World), Barcelona are closely monitoring Alex Valle, a young left-back currently on loan at Celtic. 

Valle has started to settle in well in Scotland, having secured a regular spot in Brendan Rodgers’ starting eleven despite a challenging start.

Initially, Valle was expected to join Barcelona’s first team this season. However, in a twist, he opted for a loan spell at Celtic to gain more consistent playing time and experience. 

Before his move, he extended his contract with Barcelona until 2026, a sign that the club still sees potential in him and might include him in their future plans upon his return.

Valle is adapting well in Scotland

Valle’s adaptation in Scotland has been promising, as he seems to be thriving in Glasgow. He recently impressed during his Champions League debut against Atalanta, contributing to a hard-fought 0-0 draw. 

Barcelona are monitoring Alex Valle’s progress. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

With further European fixtures lined up against RB Leipzig and Dinamo Zagreb, he’ll have more opportunities to showcase his abilities on a grand stage.

So far, Valle has featured in seven matches for Celtic across different competitions, playing 489 minutes and providing three assists. 

These performances are likely to be of keen interest to Barcelona, especially given their limited left-back options beyond Balde. Valle’s development at Celtic could present Barcelona with a valuable, homegrown option for the future.

Meanwhile, Barcelona have been linked with potential new left-back targets for next summer. One prominent name circulating is Alphonso Davies of Bayern Munich, who could become available on a free transfer. 

For now, however, Valle’s progress at Celtic offers hope that Barcelona may already have a talented left-back in the making, reducing the need for an external signing. 

If he continues to improve, Valle could become a valuable asset upon his return, adding depth to Barcelona’s defensive line.