The last big renewal which needs to be done

The last big renewal which needs to be done

Francesc de Haro
Bartomeu quiere cerrar la renovación de Alba
Bartomeu quiere cerrar la renovación de Alba | sport

Barcelona have begun the process of renewing Jordi Alba's contract at the club, the most important player who hasn't recently signed a new deal. The left back's contract expires in 2020 and it's logical that the club and player would reach an agreement to extend his stay at the Camp Nou. It wouldn't make sense to start a battle with someone who has made that position his own and has no natural replacement.

Alba must sign a new deal. Just as other starters have done such as Pique, Suarez, Busquets and Rakitic, Alba should be next in line. No one can question him being first choice. There isn't a suitable backup in the squad and when Vermaelen played there against Leganes we all know how that turned out. 

MESSI'S BEST ASSISTANT

The importance of Jordi Alba in the system Valverde plays is undeniable. He's more than just a left back, he's one of the key members in attack too. And if you disagree, just ask Messi. The little Argentine is always looking to find the runs of Alba and the two have a fantastic connection.

Now it's up to the club to return the effort that Alba has made for the team since 2012. They must talk. If they've been able to reach an agreement with Busquets, Pique and company then they should with Alba too. Negotiate, sure, but without pushing the player too far. At 29, the left back still has plenty of years ahead of him to give to Barça.