Hansi Flick ‘wanted to keep’ one loaned out Barcelona star | OneFootball

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick was eager to keep hold of a member of his squad to have been farmed out on loan during the summer.

That’s according to Diario Sport, who point towards Álex Valle as the player in question.

The name of youngster Valle has taken its place front and centre in the chatter in Catalunya’s capital over recent days.

This comes after the 20-year-old – who linked up with Scottish giants Celtic over the summer – notched his 2nd assist in as many matches, courtesy of a gorgeous backheel against St. Johnstone.

And yet, as alluded to above, had Barcelona boss Hansi Flick had his way, such exploits on Valle’s part could well have come in Blaugrana colours this season.

As per a report from Diario Sport:

‘Hansi Flick wanted Alex to be part of the squad. This is what he told Deco.’

The issue for Barca’s new manager, however, was the fact that he couldn’t guarantee a regular starting berth for Valle in his squad.

With Jules Koundé a lock at right-back, and Alejandro Balde and Gerard Martín to compete with on the other side, the left-back, in turn, made the call to join Celtic in search of more consistent playing time.

Conor Laird – GSFN