Barcelona defender Marcos Alonso has played just about 300 minutes of football this season and it goes without saying that despite agreeing to an extension this year, his immediate future is in question.
In this regard, a report from Mundo Deportivo has emerged that several Saudi Arabian teams have inquired about the availability of the defender.
Up to this point, neither the club nor the player has issued any statements regarding the matter. Hence, the aforementioned outlet claims that this silence leaves open the potential for a transfer during the upcoming winter market.
Alonso cannot have minutes under Xavi
It goes without saying that the defender’s role in Xavi’s blueprint is entirely secondary and this can be understood by the fact that he has started just four games this season across all competitions, clocking a mere 299 minutes.
The defender is seeking more playing time, and the flexibility of operating as a centre-back, like he did in the previous season, is no longer available.
Sources within Barça indicate that Xavi considers Alonso as a backup for Alejandro Balde and cannot commit to providing the desired playing minutes.
Additionally, the club representatives reveal that there is interest from multiple clubs in Saudi Arabia.
While clubs such as Al-Hilal, Al-Ettifaq, and Al-Ittihad have reportedly enquired about the player’s situation, the transfer option remains uncertain, and the player is cautious not to make any quick decisions.
Alonso is willing to wait
As of today, the veteran defender, who is not entirely pleased with his situation, is inclined to delay making a conclusive decision until the conclusion of the season.
Furthermore, Barcelona’s squad is already too short, and losing a defensive player in the middle of the season, however beneficial it might look financially, would be a call for trouble.
Now, it is important to note that while Alonso’s contract expires in 2024, there is an option for another year but hinges on his participation in at least half of the official matches.
Meanwhile, reports from Madrid suggest that Atletico Madrid are also interested, albeit not to the extent of paying a transfer fee during the winter market.
Manchester United had expressed interest in the summer, yet no decisive action was been taken. Despite Alonso’s willingness to return to the Premier League, the most viable option at present appears to be a move to Saudi Arabia.
