Ferran Torres has become an integral part of Xavi’s plans at Barcelona after arriving from Manchester City for 55 million euros in January. According to Fichajes, the Spaniard is now urging the club to sign his former teammate Oleksandr Zinchenko who he believes will be a positive reinforcement.

The Catalans are gearing up for a busy summer transfer window. Deals with Andreas Christensen (Chelsea) and Franck Kessie (AC Milan) as free agents are on the verge of completion. The club also have eyes on Cesar Azpilicueta (Chelsea) and Noussair Mazraoui (Ajax), who are also expected to arrive on a free this summer once their contracts run out.

Following reinforcements in central defence, right-back and midfield, manager Xavi could look to strengthen the left-back slot. For years, Jordi Alba has been the undisputed starter in that position for the Catalan giants. Although Alba, 33, has been a world-class full-back for most of his career, several people believe it’s better to have competition for the tough spot.

Barcelona have been linked with various names for the left-back position – Jose Gaya of Valencia, Alex Moreno of Real Betis, RB Leipzig’s Angelino as well as La Masia graduate Alejandro Grimaldo who is now playing his trade in Portugal with Benfica.

According to a report by Fichajes, however, attacking ace Torres has advised Xavi and the club to sign his former City teammate Oleksandr Zinchenko. Torres believes that the Ukrainian international is a highly intelligent footballer who has all the qualities to emerge as the ideal long-term replacement for Alba at left-back.

🎯 Best pass accuracy in the final third in the Premier League in 2021:

1️⃣ G. Wijnaldum – 88.4%
2️⃣ J. Stones – 88.3%
3️⃣ Mahrez – 87.6%
4️⃣ B. Silva- 87.4%
5️⃣ O. Zinchenko – 87.1%
6️⃣ Rodri – 87%
7️⃣ I. Gundogan – 86.9%
8️⃣ S. McTominay – 85.7%
9️⃣ Foden – 85.7%
🔟 A. Laporte – 85.3%

— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) December 29, 2021

Zinchenko will not command a hefty price tag either as the Citizens have been looking for buyers for him. The 25-year-old is keen to seek a move to newer pastures after falling behind in the pecking order following the arrival of Joao Cancelo.

Although he started his career as a midfielder, Zinchenko was converted into a left-back by Pep Guardiola when City were short on resources in that position. He can also operate as a left-winger, and working under Guardiola for several years makes him familiar with the ideals of Barcelona.