Ready. Set. Go.
The race for Brazilian right back Dani Alves has apparently started as the 31-year-old FC Barcelona man will be available on a free transfer at the end of the current season.
Alves has spent the last seven seasons at Barca but his place is under threat at the Nou Camp from new signing Martin Montoya.
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According to various reports in the UK media, Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City are all offering Alves the chance to play in the Premier League.
Known for his lung-bursting runs down the right flank and a mainstay in Barca’s lineup for almost a decade, Alves, despite his age, would be a good signing for any of the aforementioned trio. Especially on a free transfer.
Manchester City would seem like the most likely option, as Alves will likely demand astronomical wages, but the Citizens are pretty stacked at right back with both Pablo Zabaleta and Bacary Sagna on the books. As for United, Alves could be an interesting option as a right wing-back in a 3-5-2 formation should Antonio Valencia and others not slot into that role this season under Louis van Gaal.
Liverpool seems like a long shot, with Brendan Rodgers’ mantra to develop and nurture young talent. Youngster Jon Flanagan is returning from injury and is thought of highly at Anfield plus Javier Manquillo has arrived from Atletico Madrid on a long-term loan at right back, then there’s also Glen Johnson.
Juventus, Inter Milan and Paris Saint-Germain have also been mentioned as clubs interested in Alves. The Brazilian full back can start speaking to potential new clubs in January, as Barcelona stall on offering him a new deal in the Catalan capital. Watch this space.
