Barcelona opinion: Should Barca sign Filipe Luis?

According to a report from ESPN, Barcelona are eyeing a move for Atletico Madrid defender Filipe Luis. The Brazilian left-back’s contract is due to expire at the end of this season.

Luis continues to influence Diego Simeone’s side week in and week out.  Despite being 33, the former Chelsea man hasn’t shown any signs of stopping. In fact, he has garnered 2 goals and 2 assists to his name this season and was crucial behind his side finishing second in the La Liga table.

The Brazilian has played more than 300 matches for Atletico in two different spells. He has also won 10 major honours combined for his club and country.

Barca are in desperate need of a left-back

Barca’s lack of strength from the bench for the left-back position took its toll at Anfield when the Blaugrana suffered a humiliating defeat in the Champions League semi-final.Jordi Alba, the first choice left-back’s blunders cost Barca.

But it will never take away the fact that Alba is one of the best left-backs of his generation – his stats are a testimony to that.

The former Valencia man has made 50 appearances this season and played almost every game. Juan Miranda was promoted from the reserves to provide cover for Alba but he couldn’t last long.

Should Barca go for Luis?

Alba has signed a contract extension which will keep him at Camp Nou until 2024. Given that he is already in his 30s, Barca can avail the service of Luis to ease the pressure off Alba.

The Brazilian international balances his play between both the attack and defence, thus making him one of the most complete full-backs. Most importantly, his experience will be an added advantage for the Blaugrana.

Conclusion

Without a shadow of a doubt, Barca will look to reinforce their defence as a fall-out of the horrific defeat on Tuesday night. And the best way forward is to make a call on Luis, who will be a free agent.