Barcelona impressed with Thiago Alcantara against Arsenal while on scouting trip to watch Hector Bellerin
Former Nou Camp star has shone since leaving for Bayern Munich in 2014 — and could make return this summer
BARCELONA want to bring Thiago Alcantara back to the Nou Camp this summer, according to reports in Catalonia.
The midfielder graduated through the club’s academy but moved to Bayern Munich in 2013, due to competition for places.
Then boss, Tata Martino, sanctioned his sale as Thiago was not going to get into the team ahead of the likes of Xavi, Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets and Cesc Fabregas.
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However, he has excelled in Munich — and this has been his most impressive season yet.
The 25-year-old is thriving under Carlo Ancelotti at the Allianz Arena.
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And report Barcelona director, Robert Fernandez, was impressed with Thiago’s performance during the first 5-1 victory over Arsenal at the Allianz Arena, while scouting Hector Bellerin.
Thiago knows the club, having been there at youth level and been a member of the first team — and now has experience of winning titles in Germany.
He made his debut in 2009 and two years later was an unused sub for the Champions League final victory over Manchester United.
Following two season of regular playing time, he followed his former boss, Pep Guardiola, to Bayern after winning four La Liga crowns.
He has won the Bundesliga in all three of his seasons in Germany, as well as the cup twice.
Barcelona are desperate to add more youth to their midfield — but may have to accept they will not sign one of their top priorities.
Marco Verratti is considered by many to be one of the brightest players in the game, and it a player greatly admired across all of the continent’s biggest clubs.
Especially at the Nou Camp.
However, Paris Saint-Germain will be reluctant to sell their prize asset to a team which recently humiliated them in the Champions League.