3 reasons why Barcelona should re-sign Dani Alves 

Barcelona look set to dig deep into the transfer market once again. The club won another La Liga title under Valverde last season. However, they are yet to win a Champions League title since 2015. According to reports, the Catalans are ready to sign major stars such as Neymar and Antoine Griezmann to match their ambition.

On the other hand, former Barcelona star Dani Alves has also been linked with La Liga return. Alves might be past 35 years of age, but he still has plenty to offer. Here, we will take a look at why Barcelona should prioritize Dani Alves's return.

Barcelona need a reliable defender

Athletic Club de Bilbao v FC Barcelona - Copa del Rey: Quarter Final

Barcelona did not have trouble scoring in La Liga last season. They bagged massive 90 goals in the league while the second-best scoring team managed to claim only 63. However, the club still have a lingering defensive problem, particularly at right back.

Sergi Roberto seems more comfortable to play as a midfielder while Nelson Semedo has failed to impress. Barcelona conceded just 36 goals in La Liga last season. Unfortunately, they are not among the top 3 in terms of defense, as Atletico Madrid, Getafe and Valencia have all conceded fewer goals.

Barcelona defense also collapsed in the Champions League semi-final, conceding 4 goals against Liverpool. Hence, it is evident that Barcelona still miss Dani Alves. The 36-year-old is a highly consistent player, and many have regarded him as one of Europe's best right backs since more than a decade.

Alves is also a born leader, as he has captained Brazil national team in the Copa America. His excellent leadership will help other senior defenders, such as Gerrard Pique in organizing Barcelona's backline.

Age-defying display

Brazil v Peru: Final - Copa America Brazil 2019

Dani Alves has become the first player in history to win 40 trophies after winning the Copa America with Brazil. Alves impressed in the Copa America and even crowned as the tournament's best player, despite Brazil being without star player Neymar in the tournament.

Though the former Juventus man is 36, he continues to play regularly at the highest level. It is no secret that a right-back would need to possess tremendous energy to roam the pitch, and this has usually become a problem for ageing players.

However, the veteran defender still does his job perfectly. He excels in both attack and defence. Alves recorded excellent 2.5 tackles and 1.3 successful dribbles on average in Copa America. His pass completion rate was also impressive, standing at 88.5 per cent.

Alves might have appeared just 19 times in Ligue 1 last season, but he made a considerable impact nonetheless. He scored a league goal and amassed 7 assists.

Barcelona can have him for free

FC Barcelona v Villanovense - Copa Del Rey

The Brazilian has left PSG after spending 2 seasons with the French giants. He is now without a club and has been linked to European top leagues such as Serie A, La Liga and Premier League.

Thus, Barcelona could share a small portion of the club's enormous wealth to offer a decent pay packet for the veteran defender. Despite his old age, Alves probably can still play around 2 to 3 years at the top level, judging by his recent impressive form. He will be a huge help for Barcelona, who seek Champions League glory.

The 36-year-old is a disciplined player and does not have any notable off-field issue. He would not have a problem even if Valverde uses him as a backup to Sergi Roberto. Hence, Alves will be a quick and cheap solution to strengthen Barcelona's defence.