David Alaba remains on FC Barcelona's wish-list
The versatile Austrian, who now plays more at centre back than on the left of defence, is out of contract next summer
FC Barcelona versus Bayern Munich is one of the best matches you can see in Europe but, aside from the two sides' history, there are also a few side stories which garner plenty of interest.
Coutinho and Thiago both have past - and present - history with Barça and there's a personal battle between the sticks as ter Stegen faces Neuer. However, David Alaba is another player who interests both sides.
The 28-year-old defender, who has morphed into a centre back in recent years, is about to complete his 10th season with Bayern Munich. He's largely been an indispensable member of the team during that period and has established himself as one of the best around.
Alaba has the quality, potential and versatility to start in any team. A natural left back, he's also excelled in central midfield as well as in defence. Youngster Alphonso Davies has taken over left-back duties which means Alaba is primarily a centre back nowadays.
Bayern value Alaba at €65m. Barça have followed the player's progress for a long time but, despite a mutual interest in a move, it's never gone beyond informal talks.
ALABA HASN'T SIGNED A NEW DEAL
That could change this summer as Alaba is out of contract next summer and he's still yet to pen a new deal at Bayern. Barça want to sign the defender on a free transfer when his contract expires but that is a risky strategy. Alaba and Bayern have agreed to discuss terms on a long-term deal once the Champions League has concluded.
This season Alaba has played 83% of the available minutes at Bayern, scoring two goals and providing two assists. On Friday Alaba will line up against Barça and be tasked with keeping Luis Suarez quiet and, if he succeeds, might force Barça to re-evaluate their plans.
