Barcelona Transfer News: A rumour in the Spanish press claims that Atletico Madrid is keeping an eye on Barcelona’s versatile midfielder Sergi Roberto. He will become a free agent after the season 

Barcelona Transfer News: Atletico Madrid is reportedly showing interest in signing Barcelona defender Sergi Roberto ahead of the summer transfer window, according to Spanish publication Goal Spain.

La Masia’s Roberto came up through the ranks of the junior system. He earned his first-team debut under Pep Guardiola more than a decade ago. The 30-year-old has never been a certain starter in his career. However, because of his flexibility and work effort, he has proven to be a key player for the Catalans throughout the years.

Barcelona Transfer News: Sergi Roberto has already lost his place from the side

Although he began his career as a central midfielder, the Spaniard has transformed himself into a right-back in recent years. His availability for games during the previous eighteen months, however, has taken a hit due to a lack of fitness on his part. He graduated from La Masia in 2012. Roberto’s contract with Barcelona is set to expire after the current season. The club has not yet offered him an extension.

Since his future at Camp Nou seems to be in jeopardy beyond the current campaign, Atletico Madrid has been monitoring his status to explore signing him on a Bosman deal during the summer transfer window.

Atletico Madrid is looking for a new right-back to replace Kieran Trippier in the starting lineup. In addition to bringing in Daniel Wass from Valencia during the winter transfer window, Diego Simeone’s side is still on the market for a more established alternative to improve the right side of their defence.

Will Atletico make a move for Roberto?

They have links with Aston Villa full-back Matty Cash. The reigning La Liga winners are also in discussions to sign Tottenham Hotspur defender Emerson Royal. Meanwhile, they are keeping a close watch on Roberto’s status in Barcelona as well.

Although he has been plagued by injury troubles recently, the 30-year-old is a vital addition to the team because of his experience and flexibility. He has made more than 300 appearances for the Blaugrana. Roberto has been a member of various championship-winning teams during his career. He can play at right-back as well as central midfield. This might come in useful if Atletico Madrid loses Marcos Llorente to Liverpool. He has been linked with the Spaniard.

However, according to the source, the Rojiblancos are just considering Roberto as a potential market possibility at this time. They have not designated him as a priority target. It remains to be seen whether or not this will alter in the next weeks and months.

Barcelona manager Xavi said, “I’ve said it many times. Sergi is a player who has to stay at the club. This is something the club needs to deal with. It depends on him, the economics, but in terms of football there are no doubts he’s an important player for me for the future of Barca.”