Jordi Alba welcomes Barcelona transfer link with Chelsea star

Barcelona defender Jordi Alba has welcomed the prospect of compatriot Alvaro Morata joining the club from Chelsea when the transfer window reopens.

The Spain international has endured a stop-start season with the Blues this term but he has still managed a decent tally of five goals from 14 league appearances.

Despite this, there has recently been the speculation that Morata would fancy a return to Spain with Barcelona among those interested and Alba has welcomed the chance to reunite with his national teammate.

"Morata is a player that I appreciate a lot, he has been a top player for many years. At the end, it's the club's [decision] if they want to sign him or not, as with any other player. If the rumours are true, he would be very welcome," he said.

Morata started the midweek Europa League game at MOL Vidi after being an unused substitute in the previous match but his appearance was shortlived following a worrying knee injury sustained during the first period.