Though our potential summer signing, David Alaba, can play as a left-back, his profile is far from similar to that of Jordi Alba. With Junior Firpo seemingly out of favour with Ronald Koeman, it would make sense to bring in a man to compete with the 32-year-old. The man whose name has popped up a lot in the media lately is Valencia’s José Gayà.
When talking about Jordi Alba’s successor, Gayà has always been seen as one of the main candidates. A brilliant crosser and outstanding dribbler, José has always stood out in Valencia’s squad. He’s very cooperative and hard-working, aggressive when pressing and always keen to get into the box, being defensively solid too. As you can tell, there are few better options than Gayà.
Jordi Alba has been superb this season, so one may ask why I would sign another LB. Being 32, Alba is obviously not ready to compete in every game. He has done so this term, yet that has often seen his form deteriorate. Some may suggest Barça B wonderkid Alejandro Baldé should get promoted, but I don’t think he’s ready. Still 17, there’s a lot that he has to learn under Pimienta.
Market opportunity
Valencia are in a state of disarray, so we could afford Gayà for around 15 million. However, there are reports suggesting that José is negotiating a contract renewal. That means the board will need to be rapid in order to make an inquiry before it’s too late.
Jordi Alba is in need of a proper competitor, and José Gayà is the ideal man for the job. At only 25 years of age, the Spaniard has a lot to offer to Barça. It won’t be an easy deal to pull off, yet we will have to go for it.
