Spanish daily Sport claims that FC Barcelona have Valencia left wing full-back Jordi Alba at the top of the list of defensive reinforcements that might be brought  in during the winter transfer market. Alba has put in great performances with Valencia in this and the previous season and his efforts have earned him his Spain national team debut in September 2011.

The Catalan defender has garnered most of his footballing knowledge rising up the ranks of Valencia CF, where he got his first-team debut in September 2009. Since his debut, he has been competing with Jeremy Mathieu for first team minutes. His versatility to play as a left-midfielder also works in his favour. However, the main reason for his being linked with a move away from Valencia is that his contract expires at the end of this season. Supposedly, Alba has stalled all renewal talks as well as offers arriving from other clubs till the end of the year. Therefore, the winter transfer market may be Valencia’s only opportunity to gain something from his transfer. Jordi Alba scored a late goal against Zaragoza to give Valencia an away victory. Following is a video of that goal.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zH7F_T1V7EI

Alba was called for his Spain debut on 11th October 2011 against Scotland for the Euro 2012 qualifiers. He played an impressive game and provided an assist for David Silva for the opening goal. He is being touted as the permanent replacement for Joan Capdevila in the national team. With Puyol’s continuing injury problems and Abidal’s contract talks still on hold, Jordi Alba may prove to be the best alternative to fill in at left-back. With the liga experience he possesses and his availability for a fair price, the Catalan defender may prove to be a great buy.

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Image Credits: Getty Images