Aston Villa are ready to make their move for Spanish full-back Marcos Alonso
According to AS, Premier League side Aston Villa are eyeing a summer deal for Barcelona outcast Marcos Alonso as the transfer window draws to a close.
The Spanish full-back moved to the Nou Camp from Chelsea in the summer of 2022 after quitting Stamford Bridge by mutual consent. Since then, the 32-year-old has made 37 appearances for the Catalan club across all competitions, scoring thrice in the process.
Primarily a left-back, Alonso is capable of playing upfield on the left flank and also slotting in as an emergency centre-back when needed. This versatility makes him an interesting choice for Unai Emery, opening up avenues for the Spanish tactician to deploy him.
Aston Villa have enjoyed a promising summer transfer window with several key players brought in. Their opening-day loss to Newcastle United was a learning curve but last weekend’s triumph over Everton showcased what is possible once the players gel together.
Currently, Lucas Digne and Alex Moreno are the two specialist left-backs at Villa’s disposal. With the former closing in on an exit from Villa Park, it is evident that Emery needs a new left-back. Alonso meets the criteria and will prove to be an experienced head in a new-look Villa roster.
Alonso’s time in Catalunya appears to be coming to an end as Barcelona seek to rebuild under Xavi Hernandez. The veteran is yet to be registered to La Liga ahead of the transfer deadline and could be sacrificed to make space for potential reinforcements.
The emergence of Alejandro Balde coupled with the arrivals of Inigo Martinez and potentially Joao Cancelo should see Alonso slip further down the pecking order. He is better off returning to the English top flight, where he could become a key cog in a resurgent Villa roster.
An attacking player, Alonso is an adept tackler who can also get forward into space when the opportunity arises. He can also take a mean freekick and is capable of adding dynamism on the Villa flank. Emery will benefit from Alonso’s direct style as he aims to take Villa to the next level.
The Spaniard is familiar with the English game having represented Sunderland, Bolton Wanderers and more recently Chelsea. A final hurrah at Villa Park could very well be on the cards.
