Barcelona are reportedly interested in making a move for RB Leipzig left-back Angelino, who is keen on returning to Spain.
According to Fichajes, Barcelona could provide a way back to Spain for RB Leipzig defender Angelino, who is intent on returning to his homeland to be closer to his family.
Angelino spent the early years of his footballing journey at the academies of Escolas Luis Calvo Sanz and Deportivo La Coruna before arriving at Manchester City in 2013. During his time at the Mancunian outfit, the left-back spent time away on loan at New York City FC, Girona, RCD Mallorca, and NAC Breda.
The 25-year-old left the Cityzens permanently in the summer of 2018 when he signed for Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven. However, a year later, he was re-signed by Pep Guardiola’s side, who were on the lookout for cover in the left-back position. But Angelino hardly got any game-time in the first half of the 2019/20 campaign before being shipped off to RB Leipzig on loan.
Since his move to the Bundesliga, Angelino has taken his game up a notch, providing an added dimension to Leipzig’s gameplay with his attacking impetus on the left flank. The German outfit signed the Spaniard permanently in the summer of last year, and he has continued to impress. He has made 82 appearances for them, scoring ten goals and setting up 23 more.
However, in a recent interview with Kicker magazine (h/t BuLi News), Angelino insisted that he wished to return to Spain soon as he wanted to be closer to his family. It has seemingly alerted Barcelona, who are now pondering the possibility of making a swoop for the ex-Manchester City ace.
Barcelona are on the lookout for a new left-back to challenge Jordi Alba and eventually take over as the first choice in the position. The veteran Spanish international has shown signs of decline recently, while the Blaugrana do not have a proper cover for him either, apart from the young and inexperienced Alejandro Balde.
As a result, a new left-sided full-back is a main priority for Xavi Hernandez’s side heading into the summer, with Valencia’s Jose Gaya believed to be their primary target. However, if they miss out on the Spaniard, the Catalan giants are keeping their options open. A move for Chelsea star Marcos Alonso has been touted recently, while Angelino has also emerged as a target.
The report states that Angelino’s market value stands at €30 million. And with his contract running until the summer of 2025, RB Leipzig will be in a strong position to negotiate a fee. Considering Barcelona’s current financial plight, it could get difficult for them to land the 25-year-old.
