Bayer Leverkusen mainstay Jonathan Tah is one of the players most highly regarded by FC Barcelona to strengthen their centre-back options for the next season.
The 28-year-old German international with 33 caps is set to be a free agent in the summer as he is in the final year of his contract with his current club. That, along with his footballing qualities, makes him an attractive option in the market.
As such, Tah has become one of the most sought-after defenders by major European clubs in the upcoming transfer windows. Although Barcelona are reportedly leading the race, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid are also keeping an eye on his situation.
Xabi Alonso breaks silence
For now, his coach at Leverkusen, Xabi Alonso, has made it clear that they need Tah at his best until the end of the season, and has refused to rule out his continued stay.
“We need him until the last day, then we will see what happens,” said Alonso, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
Alonso holds Tah in a very high regard. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
As far as Alonso is concerned, Tah is “a top-level leader who gets better every day,” and his consistent performance as the leader of the Bundesliga champions’ defence “is no surprise” to his coach.
“We had an honest conversation in the summer, and now we are very happy that he is with us,” Alonso added.
With 21 appearances this season, with one goal to his name, Tah has proven to be a reliable asset for Alonso, who is focused on enjoying his presence at the club for as long as the player wants to stay.
However, all reports suggest that Tah is not keen on extending his contract with Bayer Leverkusen.
“I am not worried about that at the moment. We are happy to have him with us this season. His attitude is top-notch, and he has a great influence on our game. We need him until the last day. Then we will see what happens in the future. Summer is still too far away for me,” said Alonso.