There are several players at FC Barcelona this season who are simply not performing as expected. Moreover, this is not just even criticism of their overall quality but just a critique of their current season. For this reason, Barcelona continue to look for alternatives to incorporate as well.
One player who definitely needs more competition to push him is Alejandro Balde. After a surreal campaign in the previous season, Balde’s form and motivation seem to have dropped this season. However, Barcelona believe that this is a possibility due to the lack of competition as well.
For this reason, the club is keeping their eyes open to possible arrivals at left-back. Fortunately for them, one of their many loanees this season just so happens to be a left-back. Moreover, he is proving himself to be quite the player over in La Liga Hypermotion.
As highlighted by SPORT, Alex Valle is a great option that Barça keeps an eye on. The Spanish fullback, aged just 19, is a product of La Masia and is currently out on loan under the orders of Javier Calleja at Levante.
Interestingly, he is the Under-20 player who has accumulated the most minutes in the league. With 1493 minutes played, he is showcasing why exactly he is being followed by Barcelona as much as he is. His coach at Levante has his full faith in the youngster, and he is reciprocating it.
Since recovering from a muscle injury, Valle has played everything for Levante. Whenever he has been available, apart from a cup game with rotations, he has played every single match for Calleja’s side. He remains an undisputed starter, and at 19, that becomes even more impressive.
Barcelona, believing that they need a specialist left-back as soon as possible, are keen on Valle’s progression. By the summer of this year, a final decision will be made. For now, Valle focuses on continuing his development while Barça focus on helping Balde regain himself.