Barcelona eye LaLiga star with €60 million release clause - Reports

Barcelona are interested in Villarreal winger Alex Baena, according to SPORT. The Spanish forward has been quite impressive with the Yellow Submarine this season, registering four goals and five assists from 17 games.

His efforts have earned him admirers at multiple clubs across the continent. The Catalans also have him on their radar as they look to sign a new winger this year.

The LaLiga giants were hot on the heels of Nico Williams last summer but failed to get a deal across the line. While Barcelona remain interested in the 22-year-old, prising him away from Athletic Bilbao won't be easy.

There's tremendous competition for Williams' services ahead of the summer, prompting the Catalans to prepare a plan B. Baena has been identified as an option for the job.

While he remains integral to Villarreal's plans, they could struggle to keep hold of him amid rising interest in his services. The player is under contract until 2028, and apparently has a €60m release clause in his deal.

That could pose a problem for Barcelona, who are in financial distress right now. However, it hasn't stopped the club from pursuing a deal.

The Catalans are aware that the player would prefer to stay in Spain if he leaves the Yellow Submarine and are hoping to make it work to their advantage. Baena has fond memories of his time in Catalonia with Girona and is apparently willing to return to the region.

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What has Alex Baena said about Barcelona links?

Alex Baena

Alex Baena has expressed a desire to play for Barcelona on multiple occasions. Speaking on Cadena SER in April last year, as cited by Mundo Deportivo, the Spaniard had hinted that he dreamed of playing for the Catalans.

"Who wouldn't like to play for Barça? Playing for Barça would be one of the biggest dreams as a footballer, it is the best team in the world, but I am in the club of my life, which is where I started and I hope I will be there for many years here," said Baena.

Speaking to RAC1 last summer, as cited by Football Espana, Baena added that the LaLiga giants' style of play suits him.

“I like Barcelona’s style of play, and their possession-based game. They are always attacking, and I think that benefits me,” said Baena.

Hansi Flick's team are currently third in the LaLiga table after 19 games, five points behind leaders Real Madrid.