Barcelona have identified Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney as a potential summer target.
Los Culés are in the market for a left-back, with Jordi Alba having turned 33 this month. That said, The Sunday Post understands that Real Madrid are preparing a £50 million bid to solve their full-back woes.
Barca only have Alejandro Balde as Jordi Alba’s backup. The latter has been phenomenal under Xavi but it is natural to assume that the club wants to have his replacement ready. Alex Balde is a budding prospect but his fitness issues are a matter of concern.
Los Blancos on the other hand, have Nacho on their only pure LB. David Alaba has been employed as an LB at times but his best moments have come when he has played as a CB.
Having failed to sign him in 2019 when he was in-charge of Napoli, Carlo Ancelotti wants to go for Tierney once again.
The source also understands that the 24-year-old’s first goal for Scotland intensified Real Madrid’s interest in him. It has also brought Barca into the picture.
Ideal successor for Jordi Alba?
There is no doubt that Tierney has a bright future ahead of him. At 24, he has already made some massive inroads at Arsenal. Moreover, he is one of the main reasons behind the Gunners’ revival this season. He is also among the leadership group at the Emirates Stadium.
Barcelona prefer Jose Gaya to replace Alba. That’s a well-known fact. But, the Valencia full-back is said to be closing in on a renewal with his current club and that could complicate things for the Blaugrana.
Tierney has shown that he can flourish in a system that relies on short passing and maintaining possession. In other words, he is almost playing in a Spanish system in England. Under a coach like Xavi, there is no doubt that he would fit right into the dynamics like a glove.
The 24-year-old is a bright prospect and it is clear to see why Barca want him. He is quick, effective against right-wingers who look to cut inside, and more importantly, he is solid in tackling. In other words, Tierney has got the makings of a world-class full-back. He is good in the air as well and closes down on his opponents quickly in the event of a loose ball.
But, £50 million could be too big an asking fee for Barca. Due to their financial situation, Barcelona are almost out of the reckoning for Erling Haaland. However, if Xavi decides to give his current attack another season and reinforce his defense, Tierney could become one of the serious targets for the club.
Jordi Alba has already established himself as one of the all-time Barca greats but with him on the wrong side of the thirties, it might be time to look beyond him.