Leo Messi stops Barcelona from signing Jordi Alba’s successor
Lionel Messi has once again intervened into Barcelona’s transfer business and stopped them from bringing in a replacement for Jordi Alba.
Barcelona enjoyed a blockbuster week as they got the better of bitter rivals Real Madrid not once, but twice. The Catalans sealed qualification into the Copa del Rey’s final and moved a step closer in quest for La Liga Santander. Before the focus returns to the Champions League next week, there was talk of signings and sales in which Leo Messi is involved and has a big say.
More from FC Barcelona
- Alexia Putellas reaches 400 games with Barcelona
- Barcelona put five past Real Betis
- Xavi backs struggling Robert Lewandowski
- Gavi youngest Barcelona player to reach 100 games
- Barcelona struggle but pull out win against Osasuna
Jordi Alba was offered a contract extension last week and is now tied to the club until June 2024, but the Spain international would have gone well past his prime by then and hence, Barcelona need to rope upon a replacement. As a result, El Blaugrana had decided to pursue the signatures of Brazilian talent Luan Candido, who is currently aged 18 and plays for South American giants Palmeiras.
Luan Candido’s release clause is just 8 million euros, but Lionel Messi feels that it is excessive for an unproven player and more so after the Spanish champions just managed to land in Emerson. That said, Luan is nonetheless a superb player and his characteristics signal the same with respect to other world-class left backs.
The 18-year-old is six feet tall and pacey. His attacking is absolutely fantastic and the fact that he is tall makes him an ideal full back who could win aerial duels on the flank. However, with Juan Miranda already knocking on Jordi Alba’s door, Barcelona already have a reliable option who can even play as a midfielder or forward- similar to Luan. In fact, Messi has a friendly bet with Barcelona about Miranda fulfilling expectations.
Luan Candido’s attentions have now turned onto RB Leipzig as without Messi’s approval, he stands no chance of playing for Barcelona. The Brazilian youngster is also being monitored by Pep Guardiola and Manchester City, a destination which he prefers because of his compatriot Gabriel Jesus’ availability in the squad.
Next. Lionel Messi sets an unassailable record versus Real Madrid. dark
Do you think Luan Candido could have been a good addition into Barcelona’s squad?