5 reasons why Barcelona must make Thiago Alcantara their top transfer target

#1 Product of La Masia

FC Barcelona v Villarreal CF - Liga BBVA

Barcelona have been linked with several players in the past few months, and while some of these rumours are only passing clouds, the others have lingered for a substantial amount of time. According to reports, the club has, in the recent past, shown interest in players like Philippe Coutinho, Antoine Griezmann, Leon Goretzka and Anthony Martial among others.

Thiago may not be able to match all of these players in terms of goalscoring ability and quality, but his primary advantage over the rest of the pack is the fact that he is sure to fit into the team seamlessly, being a product of the club's famed academy.

While Cesc Fabregas did have a difficult time at the club, ardent fans of the club will remember that he too adjusted almost immediately to his role, forming an almost telepathic relationship with his childhood friend Messi.

There may not be any guarantees of Thiago's success if he is to join the club, but past experience has made it clear that the La Masia DNA stays with youth prospects of the academy and aids them upon their return to the club.

The presence of his younger brother Rafinha, who is also a La Masia product, will also make adjusting to life at the Camp Nou a little easier for Thiago. While a transfer in the immediate future will undoubtedly be a nearly impossible task for Barcelona, the club would do well to bring the midfielder back at some point in the future.

If the player refuses to rule out a return to his boyhood club, why should FC Barcelona?