La Masia star stuck in registration limbo finally leaves on loan — Official

FC Barcelona officially announced the loan move of their former B team captain Alex Collado on Thursday. The move will see the young winger offer his services at Granada CF until the end of the season after which the next step in his career will be decided.

It comes as a big sigh of relief for Collado, who was pushed out of the professional football circuit for over six months owing to confusion over his next move.

The La Masia star signed an extension with Barcelona last year. The new deal would see him become a first-team player, as a reward for his brilliant displays for the youth team.

Collado participated in the preseason under Ronald Koeman’s command but immediately understood that he was low in the pecking order. Given the situation, the Barcelona B player decided to look for moves on loan.

While many sides were competing for his signature, none were willing to forego a purchase clause at the end of the season. Given Collado’s firm desire to succeed at Barcelona, he was not interested in a permanent move elsewhere.

Ultimately, it was Sheffield United that came closest to securing his signing on deadline day. A last-minute breakdown of plans saw the deal stagnate. Subsequently, Collado was not included in Barcelona’s first team roster or the B team squad either.

After a long time stranded without a club, the 22-year-old will finally play for a professional side again once his move to Granada is completed.