Alex Valle Barcelona transfer return talk shot down by Celtic boss as update sent on Hoops star's contract situation

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has issued an update on rumours circulating online that Barcelona are potentially considering recalling defender Alex Valle in January.

The Hoops boss confirmed he’s unaware of reports in Spain linking the 20-year-old full-back with a return to the La Liga leaders. It’s claimed Spanish officials are ready to cut short the talented youngsters’ season long-loan deal at Parkhead, despite creating a huge impression during his time with the Hoops to date.

Valle has provided strong competition for regular left-back Greg Taylor and seized his big opportunity to impress when the Scotland international was sidelined through injury earlier in the campaign.

Rodgers revealed he expects Valle to still see out the remainder of the season in Glasgow’s east end as originally planned, insisting talk of an early exit is not something he’s been made aware of. He has suggested it could be put down to “rumours and gossip” with the winter transfer window looming.

Quizzed on discussions over an early break in his 12-month agreement, the Northern Irishman told Sky Sports: “Not that I am aware of, no and nobody has told me any different. I suppose we are getting to the stage that rumours and gossip and everything kicks in leading into January. But I know Alex has really, really enjoyed his time here both on and off the pitch.

“He’s obviously a very important player for us so we wouldn’t want to lose him. And I think the experiences he is getting here both in the Champions League and domestic football. I think he’s really enjoying his time here.”

The Celtic boss also made it clear he is determined to tie down right-back Alistair Johnston on a new deal after it was reported by the Daily Record that a contract extension was in the offing. The 26-year-old has proved a revelation since moving to the Scottish champions from MLS side FC Montreal in January 2023.

It’s understood Johnston has been in talks with club chiefs since September about the possibility of agreeing a fresh terms and the Canadian has since been tabled an offer that includes a significant salary increase with negotiations with the player’s representatives now at an advanced stage.

“We are obviously very keen to do it,” Rodgers confirmed in his press conference ahead of Sunday’s Premiership clash against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park. “Naturally he is playing at a really high level and is such a great member of our team on and off the pitch. Hopefully, and I am pretty sure, the club and his representatives can organise something very soon.”