According to Moretto, a reporter from leading Spanish media outlet Relevo, La Liga powerhouse Villarreal has shown strong interest in Barcelona defender Clemente Longley. The news has sparked widespread concern in the soccer world, as the addition of Longley, an experienced center back, would undoubtedly add new life to the Yellow Submarine's back line.
Reports suggest that Villarreal's strong interest in Longley is mainly due to the team's backline needing reinforcement ahead of the new season. With Jorge Cuenca joining Fulham in the English Premier League, the Hornets have a gap in their backline, and urgently need to bring in a player with outstanding strength to fill the gap. As a former Barcelona center back, Longley not only has rich experience in the game, but also shows good defensive ability and potential, thus becoming Villarreal's preferred target.
Villarreal's manager Marcelino is even more appreciative of Longley. He believes that Longley is a very good center back with excellent physical fitness, defensive awareness and positional sense. Marcelino is confident in the potential of Longley and believes that he can play an important role in the tactical system of the Yellow Submarine and help the team to achieve better results in the new season.
Longley, 29, has a contract with Barcelona that expires in 2026. However, for various reasons, he was loaned out to play for Villa in the English Premier League last season. During his time at Villa, Longley's performance remained solid, showing his strength and potential as a good center back. Now, with his return to Barcelona at the end of his loan, Longley's future is once again in the spotlight.
