Left-back Alex Valle made an instant impact off the bench for Celtic against Club Brugge, having been on the fringes of the squad this season.
And parent club Barcelona are reportedly “happy” with the progress of the 20-year-old after his key role as a substitute in the Champions League clash. The Spaniard got himself an assist in the game, helping the Hoops to a 1-1 draw that could prove vital in the league phase of Europe’s elite competition as he spends his second season away from the La Liga heavyweights.
Valle has notched his fourth assist of the season – but has mainly acted as Greg Taylor’s understudy so far this season both domestically and in Europe, managing just six starts across all competitions. That has led to some Celtic fans growing concerned that Barca could look to recall the defender in January – but a report in Spanish outlet Sport appears to have closed the door on a return to Catalonia in January.
It is stated that Valle’s “performances have led to Barcelona monitoring his progress” with boss Hansi Flick already a fan after the defender caught the eye in pre-season. It was the player who “opted to join Celtic in order to gain regular game-time” despite the German boss being happy for him to stay.
Barca still “expect” Valle to see out the season in Glasgow’s east end as they have been “happy with how his game is evolving” under Brendan Rodgers. The Premiership leaders do not have a purchase option in the contract and it appears likely he will return to his parent club at the end of the season.
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