Barcelona after Fiorentina left-back Marcos Alonso

Barcelona have Marcos Alonso’s names on the table as one of the objectives for next season. The left-back is shining in Italy with Fiorentina, who are impressing at Fiorentina, and his versatility has not gone unnoticed by Barça. They like his physical power, his ability to attack the flank and, above all, his contract expires next summer - he could leave for free. 

In recent weeks various people from the club have been sent to watch him in action. The reports have been constant and various media have been suggesting Barça are watching several Fiorentina players, although the reality is they were watching Alonso. The player knows of the interest, as do Fiorentina, who have been trying to get him to renew his contract for several weeks. If they don’t get him to commit, Barça could sign him for zero in 2016.. 

He is a player formed in the Real Madrid academy, but like many others he didn’t get a chance in Los Blancos’s first team. He left for three million euros and signed for Bolton. He signed for Fiorentina two years ago, but they loaned him to Sunderland, and this summer he returned to Italy and has become one of the Serie A club’s best players. 

His biggest fan is Paulo Sousa, who has given him total freedom on the left side. Despite that, he can play in other positions. He’s also played in central midfield and as a central defender. It’s not strange to see him score the odd goal, either, although his great strength is creating them. 

Reports on the player are excellent and the Azulgrana will decide on his signing at the beginning of 2016. The idea is to sign a player like Alonso and he ticks the boxes for price, age and possible progression. His statistics this season are spectacular and his gaining a lot of experience with Fiorentina. 

Real Madrid are also following him with interest. They need a new left-back in January, but Florentino Perez is not ready to give a second chance to a player who left for practically nothing. If that doesn’t change, Madrid will sign another left-back and Barça will have a free path on Alonso. 

The arrival of Alonso will mean the eventual departure of Adriano in June. The Brazilian can extend his contract, but Barça are ready for him to leave. Adriano missed out on a move to Roma and hopes the Italian club will offer him another chance when the current season draws to a close.