Barcelona weighing up between two Spanish youngsters to replace veteran defender in July

Not many expected Xavi to announce his departure from Barcelona midway through the season. Yet, his decision to do so can only be described as the result of the intense pressure on whoever takes up the position and is understandable.

The manager, however, is likely to not be alone on his way out. His departure also opens the door for some of the club’s veterans to move out as they will no longer have a role, and Sergi Roberto and Marcos Alonso top the aforementioned list.

The new left-back

Alonso’s contract with the club runs out in the upcoming summer, and the player is aware that he has a low chance of winning a renewal. With his departure all but confirmed, Barcelona are on the lookout for a new left-back and Mundo Deportivo reveals that two names have caught their eye.

Alex Valle, the La Masia gem on loan at Levante, is a serious option to reinforce the position next season. Bojan Krkic is maintaining a keen eye on the youngster’s development, and it is safe to say that he is satisfied with the progress.

Moreover, Barcelona would not have to shell out any pennies for his signing considering that he is still contractually associated with the club.

The second option on their table is Sergi Cardona. The Las Palmas sensation has made the left-back position under Garcia Pimienta his own and is no stranger to thriving in possession-dominant systems. Further, his contract runs out in the coming June.

Therefore, should no club race them for latter, Barcelona could have the luxury of choosing between Valle and Cardona, a decision they cannot go particularly wrong with.

Alonso’s return

Alonso last featured in Barcelona’s clash against Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League and was forced to undergo surgery after the same to alleviate his lumbar discomfort.

His recovery has progressed well to this point, and he is expected to sit on the sidelines for another three and a half weeks before he can make a return.

With Alejandro Balde likely to continue as the team’s primary left-back next season and a new signing not too far away, Alonso has no role at the club beyond this season. In fact, he is expected to operate as an impact substitute for the rest of the campaign as well, especially after the rise of Hector Fort.