FC Barcelona came out as the winners of La Liga during the last season especially because of the contributions from their defence. This summer, the club has not rested on its laurels and has invested to further improve their backline.
Inigo Martinez was signed on a free transfer and his experience would further strengthen the Barcelona backline, which is already rock-solid with players like Araujo, Kounde, and Christensen. The Catalans are also nearing an agreement for Joao Cancelo, who would significantly improve the flanks for Xavi.
Marcos Alonso no more indispensable for Barcelona
While these additions would be a source of happiness for the club and its fans, one individual who can end up getting negatively impacted by these additions is Marcos Alonso.
Alonso played the last season mainly as a center-back, despite this not being one of his best positions, as Barcelona were thin in the center of the backline. However, as Inigo Martinez has been signed this summer, he would not be needed as much this season as he was needed last season.
Thus, he was being seen by Xavi as a substitute for Alejandro Balde, as there is no other natural left-back present in the squad. However, Cancelo’s imminent arrival would also make this role somewhat redundant as the Portuguese fullback can play both on the right and the left.
Furthermore, his situation at the club also makes it difficult for the club to sustain him. He has high wages, approximately around €9 million, which means Barcelona can free up a significant place in the wage bill with his departure. He is also one of the few players who have currently not been registered by Barcelona.
Alonso to depart the club this summer
Thus, owing to these reasons, Diario AS reported that Marcos Alonso could well be on the exit ramp this summer. Barcelona urgently need to sell players to free up space in their wage bill, and his departure can provide Barcelona with up to €5 million to register other new players.
However, Xavi has not yet given a green light for his exit from the club. But as Xavi does not really need him for this season, he can give his assent if it is necessary for the club to generate resources.
Meanwhile, Alonso is aware of the delicate situation he is in, but has already told his entourage that he intends to fulfill his contract with Barcelona which still has one year on it.
However, the player is playing safe and has also probed the market for any potential suitors, particularly in England. Aston Villa are already speculated to be interested in the defender, but his future remains uncertain for now.
