Kevin Campbell has predicted Thiago Alcantara to hand in a transfer request at Liverpool amid Barcelona links.
Speaking to Football Insider, Kevin Campbell has offered his thoughts on the uncertainty surrounding the future of Thiago Alcantara. The former Everton striker thinks the Liverpool midfielder may soon hand in a transfer request in order to force a move to his boyhood club Barcelona.
Formerly of the Flamengo youth academy, Thiago had started the early phase of his career at Barcelona, joining La Masia in 2005. He was among the most gifted in the academy, as he rapidly earned promotion after promotion before getting into the senior side in 2011.
The midfielder won four La Liga titles at Barcelona along with one Champions League, soon becoming a favourite of Pep Guardiola, who brought him to Bayern Munich. And after years of success in Bavaria, Thiago moved to Liverpool last year, for a fee of €20 million.
However, the Spaniard has endured a rusty start to his life in the Premier League. While he has certainly improved since a horrid debut campaign in England, he has now once again become a subject of interest for his former club Barcelona, with new coach Xavi keen on a reunion.
Campbell believes that the opportunity might be too tempting for Thiago to pass up. And it is only a matter of time before the Liverpool midfielder hands in a transfer request at Anfield.
“Obviously, Barcelona is his club. If the legend that is Xavi wants you back to be his dictator, it is hard to turn down. I could see him handing in a transfer request if a concrete move is made. It is the lure of your boyhood club. It is such a big draw,” he told Football Insider.
During his initial spell at Barcelona, Thiago made a total of 100 competitive appearances. He holds a close relationship with Xavi, as the duo had played together in Catalonia many years ago. Hoping to remodel the current Barcelona midfield, the Spaniard is now eyeing a reunion.
“He’s a top player so it’s of no surprise to hear Barcelona are interested in him. Liverpool are in a strong position though as he still has a few years left on his contract,” he added.
Thiago Alcantara has played in only 37 competitive matches for his current club Liverpool so far. He has maintained a good relationship with Jurgen Klopp, but as we head towards the January window, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for the former Bayern Munich star.
Yepp it was a time use your chance Thiago
Barca has no money to buy the player, obviously they think they will get Thiago on a free but that is not going to happen.
Go mate , you are in retirement mode and Barca climate is better . Lfc do not want you , you look like you can not be bothered and are just here to retire ajd take the big pay day . So go to Barca