The need to work on sustainable solutions is currently a major topic within FC Barcelona. The Catalan giants are not the financial powerhouses they once used to be, and as a result, must work with more cost-effective methods to bring in new talents.
While going for low-cost stars or free agents remains a great idea, putting faith in their youth is also within their plans. Showcased recently by the fact that Xavi Hernandez has called several youngsters to train with the first team, Barcelona is likely to continue with that trend.
A particular young talent that Xavi and important figures in Barcelona have kept an eye on is Alex Valle. The 19-year-old left-back is a product of Barca’s but is currently playing for Levante UD. On loan with his current side, he plays in the Segunda Division in the hopes of helping Levante clinch promotion.
According to the Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Xavi takes a keen liking towards him. Barcelona believed it best that the young fullback develops in a setting different from that of Barca’s to bring out his best, and it has worked out so far.
With nine starts out of nine games with Levante, Valle has been crucial to the side of Javier Calleja. He was also among those taken by Xavi to the United States pre-season tour this summer. He was allowed to participate in the game against AC Milan for a few minutes as well by Xavi Hernández.
However, there is faith that his current loan could transform his career similar to the case of Fermin Lopez. The 20-year-old midfielder was himself on loan at Linares before getting his breakthrough.
The position of left-back is also one that remains vulnerable. While the primary occupant is the ever-reliable Alejandro Balde, the backup option of Marcos Alonso is not all that convincing.
Moreover, the veteran defender sees his contract run out by 2024. This would lie around the same time when Valle returns from his loan. In the scenario that Barcelona do not want to spend anything more than necessary, turning towards their own youth could be a solid option.
Alex Valle presents a great budget option to reinforce the left-back position. It will ultimately be up to Xavi and his coaching staff to decide if he’s worth retaining.
