Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba has reportedly been hit with an additional six-week layoff due to a thigh injury.

The Spain international was initially ruled out for three weeks after suffering a hamstring problem during Barca's 3-2 victory over Sevilla on September 14.

Despite being close to returning to action, it has emerged that head coach Gerardo Martino will be without the left-back's services for another month at least, according to BBC Sport.

Javier Mascherano and Carles Puyol are said to be closing in on their returns to fitness.