With three weeks to go until the January transfer window opens, all is quiet at Barcelona as the club don’t plan any incomings or outgoings, but they will stay alert should any needs or opportunities arise. Mundo Deportivo is reporting that both Deco and Xavi consider their squad (currently consisting of just 19 players, excluding Lamine Yamal and Fermín López) far too small to afford any losses over the winter.
There have been rumours that Ferran Torres would be open to a move, especially if Vitor Roque joins the Catalan club in January, which looks increasingly likely. However, it is thought that both the player and those within the club judge the 23-year-old to be an important player and will likely continue to feature in the first team.
Another player whose future at the club is doubtful is Marcos Alonso. The full-back has fallen down the pecking order, first losing his spot to Alejandro Balde and, more recently, to João Cancelo. The 32-year-old has played less than 300 minutes so far this season, and there has been speculation of interest from the Saudi Pro League. However, he is still considered an important asset at the club, especially following an injury to Iñigo Martínez, which leaves the club light at the back. Alonso is considered as a potential option to fill in at centre-back should the need arise. In fact, since he arrived at Barcelona, Alonso has played more games as a centre-back than he has at full-back, his natural position.
However, those within the club admit that they are waiting to see how the Saudi league goes about its business this January. Should a large offer come in, the club may consider their stance, but it would likely take an extraordinary offer for Barcelona to give in.
GSFN | Finn Entwistle
