Barcelona transfer news: Valverde okays sale of 3 stars, Mourinho's midfield general wanted in January and more - 21st October 2017

Ernesto Valverde set to let 3 stars leave

As per Spanish newspaper Sport, the Barcelona boss has informed the board of his decision to let Arda Turan, Paco Alcacer and Rafinha leave the club in January.

Both Turan and Alcacer have failed to settle at the club and they will not be short of suitors as their quality is evident. Rafinha has similarly failed to make the grade and his versatility could see him secure a move to Italy or England.

Either way, this news is a positive one for the three fringe players as they can get back to their best elsewhere while Valverde can generate funds from their sales for future transfers.

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Manchester United's Ander Herrera lined up for January

Herrera is seen as a replacement for the ageing Iniesta

The 28-year old has seen lesser game-time so far this season and looks to have fallen down the pecking order with the arrival of Nemanja Matic in the summer. Spanish outlet, Don Balon, reports that Barcelona are interested in signing the Spaniard.

The Catalan club see the player as a replacement for the 33-year old Andres Iniesta, who is nearing the end of a glorious career. However, United is currently struggling with injuries to Marouane Fellaini, Paul Pogba and Michael Carrick and this could scupper any deal in January.

Nonetheless, Herrera's contract is set to expire in the summer and although the English side have an option to extend by another year, the desire to play in the World Cup could lead to a move in January.

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Barcelona to raid Chelsea for Marcos Alonso

Alonso is Valverde's top choice to replace Jordi Alba

In a news that will infuriate Antonio Conte, Barcelona want Chelsea's high-flying left-back Marcos Alonso, as per Don Balon. Valverde is reportedly not impressed with Jordi Alba and believes Lucas Digne is not up to the mark.

On the other hand, Alonso was one of the key reasons behind Chelsea's title win last year and the Spaniard has already spoken about his desire to play in Spain one day. The 26-year old told Spanish outlet Cadena Ser recently:

“I’m very happy at Chelsea but I would like to return to play in Spain one day. Obviously, before I retire I would like to play in La Liga because I haven’t played much there.”

Further, the player is reportedly on top of Valverde's wish-list ahead of other left-backs such as Alex Sandro, Raphael Guerreiro, Jose Gaya and Marc Cucurella. However, the deal could prove difficult to complete as Alonso is the only recognized senior left-back at Chelsea.