Barcelona secure former Manchester City defender

Barcelona have recently made many high-profile signings with both Ferran Torres and Adama Traore joining from the Premier League. While the club continues to look to make new signings before the window shuts, they did make a signing for the future by securing a former Manchester City defender.

The Catalans have announced the signing of Alpha Dionkou from Granada who will be joining the youth team looking to make his mark in the defense. The 20-year-old spent a year with San Fernando and will now be joining Barca B under coach Sergi Barjuan.

While Dionkou prefers playing as a right-back, he is also versatile enough to feature in the centre-back role. This could potentially be a good reason for Xavi Hernandez to call him for first-team matches as the Spaniard isn’t afraid to give youngsters their deserved share of time. With Dani Alves taking preference over Sergino Dest, fans can hope Dionjou develops enough to challenge the 38-year-old for a spot.

Xavi has been vocal about wanting to sign a new left-back, centre-back as well as a right-back. Given the club’s current financial situation, it is more than likely that Xavi will have to be picky on who he signs and how. President Joan Laporta has already shown a preference for making as many free transfers as possible and thus Xavi might continue his trend of relying on young talent from La Masia.

After spending four years in Manchester City’s youth team, winning the English League cup and U21 Premier League, there is no doubt Dionkou could grow into the ideal right-back for the Catalans. It remains to be seen whether the youngster gets any minutes with the first-team this season as Xavi desperately needs right-back options.

Are you excited to see Alpha Dionkou at the Nou Camp?