Three options Xavi could turn to if Marcos Alonso leaves Barcelona for Man United – report

Over the past couple of days, there has been a lot of chatter about the future of Marcos Alonso at FC Barcelona, with Manchester United showing an interest in signing him.

The Red Devils are in the market for a new left-back following Luke Shaw’s injury and have narrowed in on Alonso as one of the options.

Recent reports suggest that the 32-year-old has been offered a two-year deal by Manchester United, who have also sent in a formal proposal to Barcelona to sign the veteran on loan.

The situation is far from ideal for Barça as they would have very little time to replace Alonso, but his wages mean that his departure would come as a boost on the Financial Fair Play front.

Given the circumstances, the La Liga champions could look for in-house solutions to address the left-back position.

Alejandro Balde is the undisputed starter for Barcelona but if Alonso leaves, they will need a backup to cover for the 19-year-old.

Xavi could turn to Joao Cancelo to cover at left-back

As such, SPORT is reporting that the Barça manager could turn to three players to fill the void that Alonso would leave if he moved to Manchester United.

The first and most obvious option would be the incoming Joao Cancelo. The Portuguese international, who is close to joining the club, is being brought in to reinforce the problematic right-back position but he can be equally effective on the left side.

And, Xavi could count on the 29-year-old to provide cover for Balde when required.

Barça Atletic could come to Xavi’s aid

The first-team manager could turn to Barça Atletic in order to replace Alonso, with new signing Gerard Martin being an option.

The 21-year-old joined the Blaugrana subsidiary squad this summer, arriving from Cornella, and played the full 90 minutes of their opening game against Logrones. He can also play at centre-back and is good at getting forward down the left flank.

Another player that Xavi could turn to from the Barça Atletic ranks is Edu Sanchez, who also signed this summer from Badajoz. The 18-year-old starlet is rated highly and may be an alternative for the Barcelona first-team boss if Alonso does leave.