It is a dream of every club to have a versatile player who can cover multiple positions when the need arises. At Barcelona, the profile of Sergi Roberto is seen as that ray of light. The Spanish defender covers multiple positions in the defence and midfield, yet is not a bonafide starter in any of them.
According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona and Xavi see him as the solution to their dilemma in the upcoming winter transfer window.
The Blaugranas see the right-back position to be in dire need of reinforcements and will push for the signing of one in January. In such an event, Roberto will continue to play as an interior for the second half of the season, the position he considers to be his home range.
However, it is far from assured that Barcelona will sign a right-back in the coming weeks, especially given their precarious economic situation and tight wage bill. If the Catalans fail to secure their man, the coach will once again turn to Roberto to fill the defensive position.
Roberto has played just under 600 minutes for Barcelona this term after signing a last-minute contract extension with the club ahead of the season. In that duration, he has contributed to two goals and two assists.
His season came to a sudden halt when he dislocated his shoulder against Athletic Bilbao. He stayed on the sidelines for over 45 days before finally being discharged on Monday.
Come the summer, Roberto could well be on the departure list at Barcelona alongside the other captains. His direct deal with the club ends in June, and as of now, there is nothing to suggest that they will lay an extension proposal on his table.