Celtic loanee Alex Valle will not be returning to Barcelona in the January transfer window, according to reports in Spain, easing concerns of a potential early departure from Parkhead.
The 20-year-old, who joined Barcelona’s academy at the age of 10 from Sant Gabriel, has yet to make a first-team appearance for the Catalan giants but gained valuable experience with Andorra and Levante, racking up 36 appearances over two seasons.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers identified Valle as a solution to the club’s left-back issues after Alexandro Bernabei failed to establish himself, and the Spaniard has impressed since arriving in Glasgow.
Barcelona officials are reportedly pleased with his development, making a mid-season recall unlikely.
Spanish outlet Sport claims there is no possibility of Valle being recalled in January despite his strong performances raising concerns among Celtic fans.
The report suggests Barcelona’s technical team, led by Hansi Flick, are “happy” with the youngster’s progress and intend for him to remain at Celtic for the full season.
Valle showcased his quality last weekend, providing a crucial assist for Daizen Maeda just seconds after coming on.
It was his fourth assist of the campaign despite limited game time—he has started just six matches and made four further appearances off the bench.
In comparison, first-choice left-back Greg Taylor has started 14 games but has only matched Valle’s assist tally.
Valle’s performances have drawn attention from Barcelona, with Flick reportedly impressed by his abilities during pre-season.
However, with Alejandro Balde firmly established as the club’s first-choice left-back, Valle opted to join Celtic for regular minutes to further his development.
Barcelona are said to be “content” with his progress and expect him to remain in Glasgow until the summer.
However, Celtic do not have an option to purchase Valle permanently, which could complicate any efforts to secure him beyond this season.
For now, Valle looks set to continue his promising campaign under Rodgers’ guidance, playing a key role in Celtic’s domestic and European ambitions.
