Transfer Rumour: Aleix Vidal to join Sunderland in January transfer market

Aleix Vidal, the £15 million signing from Sevilla to Barcelona in 2015, has been out of the first-team squad for the Blaugrana for 6 consecutive match weeks this season and is back up to Sergi Roberto, who has been deployed at right back.

Vidal made his first appearance for Barcelona this season at home to newly-promoted outfit Alaves, against whom, the club slipped to shocking 2-1 defeat at the Nou Camp. The Spaniard was roundly criticised by the media as well as the supporters and was named one of the worst players on the day, rounding off a dismal day for the reigning league champions.

Luis Enrique has publicly spoken about the lack of discipline shown in the defensive half of the game by the Spaniard right back, also urging the young defender to work harder in training. Vidal is one of a number of recruits to have joined Barcelona from Sevilla , with the likes of Alves, Rakitic and Keita all having successful spells at Camp Nou.

Various reports in the Spanish press claim the out-of-favour full-back is on his way out of Barcelona, seeking new pastures to restart his once-promising career. Inter Milan have been reported as one of the giant clubs looking to swoop for the Spaniard and bolster their squad in the January transter window.

David Moyes and Sunderland are also keeping a close eye on the developments surrounding the player, with the former United boss keen to strengthen his defence. The Black Cats, according to Moyes, will be in the relegation dog fight come the end of the season and will look to the winter transfer market to strengthen his squad.

Barcelona played Deportivo La Coruna tonight and cruised to an easy win. Vidal was missing from the first team and didn’t even make the squad for the Blaugrana's game against Deportivo and seems to be completely out-of-favour. Against Deportivo, Barcelona manager Luis Enrique, went in with a back three, with Mathieu, Mascherano and Pique starting in defence.

Even with Sergi Roberto out injured for the clash, Vidal did not get a sniff in the team or the squad. The Spaniard joined Barcelona last season but has made only 16 starts for the club since his move.