Dani Alves set for sensational return to Barcelona

Dani Alves is set to meet with Barcelona’s senior executives to discuss a possible comeback to the club in the January transfer window.

The 38-year-old is not yet retired, but he departed Sao Paulo in September amid an unpaid image rights dispute. He left Barça in 2016, but the club has struggled to fully replace him since then.

Since Alves’ departure, Sergi Roberto has frequently filled in at right-back, while Sergino Dest and Oscar Mingueza have also played there recently.

According to UOL, the Brazilian is expected to sign a contract with the LaLiga giants in the coming days.

Spanish publication AS also reports that Dest could benefit from the move, with Alves serving as one of the best possible mentors for the young American.

The salary and terms of the contract will be addressed, with Alves aiming for a World Cup swan song with Brazil in 2022. He continues to play for the Selecao, most recently in a 2-0 World Cup qualification win over Peru in September. After making his debut in 2006, he now has 119 caps for his country.

Xavi, the new Barça manager, would also have to approve the transfer. During the Catalan team’s better years, when they were consistently winning league titles and challenging for the Champions League, the two played together.

President Joan Laporta recently commented on the possibility of a return for Alves, stating: “Dani Alves is helping the club in many ways, and he also offered us his help from a sporting perspective. With [Carles] Puyol there is a very direct relationship. They can help if Xavi needs them.”

Xavi’s first game as head coach will be a local derby against Espanyol.