Barcelona Are Showing Interest In This Villarreal Playmaker: Decent Choice For Xavi? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Mundo Deportivo claimed that Barcelona are showing interest in Villarreal playmaker Alex Baena. It has been stated that the Catalan club have identified the Spanish talent as a transfer target next year.

Baena’s Impressive Run Of Form In La Liga This Season

Baena has made a great start to this campaign after putting in a few impressive displays for the Yellow Submarine in the final third. The 22-year-old has registered one goal and two assists in four matches for his current employers this season in La Liga.

The Spanish attacker has been a consistent performer in the opponent’s half based on his average of 3.5 shots, 2.0 key passes and 0.5 dribbles per 90 minutes in La Liga. He even distributed possession accurately from the back after completing 83.9% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).

His current contract at Villarreal will run out in the summer of 2028. Thus, it won’t be easy for Barca to get him on board on a cut-price deal next year.

LISBON, PORTUGAL – JULY 30: Alex Baena of Villarreal CF in action during the Cinco Violinos Trophy match between Sporting CP and Villarreal CF at Estadio Jose Alvalade on July 30, 2023 in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)

Will Baena Be A Good Choice For Barcelona Head Coach Xavi?

Baena is a decent dribbler with the ball at his feet and can make a few promising runs with the ball on the attacking end of the pitch. He has got the vision to create some good openings for his teammates up top and can even strike the ball with venom and precision from long range.

The Spanish talent has added a handful of goals and assists to his game which could give him the confidence to take his game to another level. He mainly functions in the number ten position but can also function as a winger on either flank if asked to do so by his manager.

Baena will no doubt inject more firepower into Barcelona boss Xavi’s attack. He is good enough to challenge for a regular starting spot at the Nou Camp next year.

At 22, the future looks quite bright for the Spanish attacking midfielder. Hence, he will be a great choice for Barca to consider in the long run. Xavi could be the ideal man to unlock the best out of the youngster at the Catalan club in the coming seasons.