Barcelona are carefully monitoring Alex Valle’s progress during his loan spell at Celtic, where the young Spanish left-back has made a significant impact since joining Brendan Rodgers’ side in August.
The 20-year-old, highly regarded at his parent club, was sent to Scotland on a season-long loan to gain vital first-team experience, having previously had stints with Andorra and Levante.
Valle’s loan move addressed a key need for Celtic, as the Scottish champions sought competition for first-choice left-back Greg Taylor.
The young defender has stepped up impressively, especially in recent weeks, filling in for Taylor after the former Kilmarnock man suffered an injury.
Valle has made eight appearances so far this season, proving his worth in both domestic and European matches.
He played a notable 45 minutes in Celtic’s 7-1 loss to Dortmund, showing resilience in a challenging fixture, and played a crucial role in their victory over Atalanta two weeks ago.
Valle’s attacking instincts and technical skills have already led to three assists for the Hoops, including a standout back-heeled pass that set up Adam Idah’s goal against St Johnstone in a 6-0 win at McDiarmid Park.
His audacious assist earned admiration far beyond Scotland, with Barcelona fans taking to social media to praise their academy product.
Reports from Spain indicate that it’s not just the fans who are impressed. Spanish outlet Sport 45 claims that Barcelona’s management are pleased with Valle’s development at Celtic and are now assessing whether he’s ready to join their first-team squad next season.
The 20-year-old, a product of the famed La Masia academy, has yet to make a competitive appearance for Barcelona’s senior side but was on the cusp of breaking through before his move to Scotland.
This summer, Valle impressed in a friendly against Real Madrid and made the bench for games against Valencia and Athletic Bilbao.
Celtic, however, may not have long-term hopes for retaining Valle. The loan deal does not include an option to buy, although the player’s release clause is reportedly set at €3 million (£2.5 million), an enticing figure if Celtic were to consider a permanent bid.
Valle’s contract at Barcelona is due to expire next summer, but it’s believed the Catalan club are keen to extend his deal while raising his release clause.
There’s also speculation that Barcelona manager Flick might want Valle back as soon as January.
Alejandro Balde currently holds the left-back position at Barcelona, but Flick has had to rely on reserve player Gerard Martin for cover when Balde is rested.
Valle’s return could provide Flick with a more robust option, boosting depth in a demanding season.
It’s reported that Barcelona are exploring ways to cancel Valle’s loan arrangement with Celtic to bring him back to Spain during the January transfer window.
Should Barcelona cut the loan short, Celtic would receive financial compensation, though the loss of Valle would undoubtedly be felt given his recent contributions and rising influence within the squad.
For now, Valle’s future remains uncertain, but with Barcelona keeping a close eye on their rising star, the young Spaniard’s journey could be set for an exciting new chapter back at the Nou Camp sooner than anticipated.