Barcelona Transfer News: Darijo Srna Linked in Aleix Vidal Replacement Rumours

Shakhtar Donetsk's Darijo Srna is reportedly a target for Barcelona in January as they look to replace Aleix Vidal with a cheap but experienced option. 

According to TV3 (h/t Sport), Srna "is the player best placed" to take over from Vidal as cover for Sergi Roberto at the Camp Nou as he fulfils their criteria for a replacement.

Vidal arrived last year but was only eligible to play from January because of Barca's transfer ban, like Arda Turan.

The Spaniard has made just 16 appearances for the Blaugrana in that time with only two coming this season, the last being in September.

As Spanish football writer Richard Martin noted, Vidal hasn't even been used as cover for Roberto:

His failure to convince leaves Barca in need of someone who can come in for Roberto if needed and Srna would make an excellent option for the short term.

A strong attacking full-back, Srna has spent virtually his entire career at Shakhtar, where he has made 462 appearances and impressively racked up 44 goals and 112 assists.

The captain is still going strong despite being 34 and has made 17 appearances this season in all competitions, providing five assists along the way. He has 134 caps for Croatia, so Barca could hardly ask for a more experienced player.

Grup 14's Navid Molaaghaei believes he would be an outstanding candidate to replace Vidal:

Spanish football expert Sergi Dominguez is also an admirer but is doubtful the move will take place:

Srna's deal expires next summer—meaning he would likely be available at a cut-price in January—and the prospect of playing with Barcelona and adding some silverware to his collection before retirement could appeal to the veteran.

However, after 14 years with the club he might prefer to see out his deal rather than leave in January.