Atletico Madrid 'considering summer move for Jordi Alba'

Atletico Madrid are reportedly keen to explore the possibility of signing Barcelona defender Jordi Alba.

The 34-year-old has another year left to run on his contract at Camp Nou, but there is currently widespread speculation surrounding his future with his Catalan club.

Alba has again been a regular for Barcelona during the 2022-23 campaign, featuring on 28 occasions in all competitions, scoring twice and registering six assists in the process.

However, he is now behind Alejandro Balde in the pecking order for the left-back spot, while Marcos Alonso has also been picked ahead of him this season.

Alba is believed to be determined to remain at Camp Nou, but Barcelona are said to be hopeful of moving him on, as the club are under pressure to make room in their wage budget.

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Sergio Busquets's departure has also been confirmed, but there will have to be further outgoings this summer if Xavi's side are to stand a chance of re-signing Lionel Messi.

Alba's future is allegedly being monitored by a number of Saudi Arabian clubs, who would be capable of offering him a substantial salary to move to the country.

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, Atletico are also keeping a close eye on the situation, with Diego Simeone's side exploring the possibility of signing the experienced defender.

The report claims that the Red and Whites are long-term admirers of Alba and view him as the ideal player to boost their defensive options for the 2023-24 campaign.

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Al-Hilal are said to lead the Saudi Arabian interest in the left-back, who started his professional career at Valencia, representing Los Che for three years ahead of a switch to Barcelona.

Alba has been a key part of the Catalan outfit's success since his arrival in 2012, winning six La Liga titles, five Copa del Rey crowns and the Champions League.

The defender has made 22 league appearances this season, scoring twice and providing three assists in the process.

Barcelona head coach Xavi recently said that Alba "remains highly valued" at Camp Nou despite suggestions that the La Liga outfit will attempt to move him on ahead of next season.