Barcelona defensive target does not want to become Alba’s backup, will renew his contract

Barcelona are on the hunt for a new left-back this summer. Xavi has appeared desperate to add someone who can not only compete with Jordi Alba but also replace the Spanish veteran in the years to come.

Many claim Jose Gaya as the main target for Barcelona due to his vast experience in La Liga. The Valencia star has indeed featured in over 200 games in the Spanish top flight and is considered one of the best fullbacks in the league.

However, journalist Alex Pintanel, in a recent interview with MadAboutBarca, has offered a rather damning update on the club’s pursuit of Gaya.

Pintanel believes the Valencia captain is not too keen on the idea of playing second fiddle to Jordi Alba at Barcelona. He was hoping for a regular place in the first team, which is not a possibility at Camp Nou until Alba hangs up his boots.

Instead of moving elsewhere, Gaya is expected to renew his contract with Valencia. His current deal at the club expires at the end of next season, but it appears he is ready to commit his long-term future to his childhood club.

At 26, Gaya is currently in the prime of his game. He knows his chances of becoming Spain’s first-choice left-back in the FIFA World Cup could be scuppered if he joins Barcelona in the new season, thereby entertaining the possibility of a lack of game-time next season.

Barcelona, for their part, have already identified a list of alternatives in their quest to sign a new left-back in the summer.

RB Leipzig sensation Angelino has been mooted as one of the potential candidates, though coach Xavi Hernandez favours Celta Vigo’s Javi Galan as the ideal man to solve the club’s issues in the left-back slot.