Barcelona eye €35 million-rated French international as solution for key position

8 months ago 52
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Heading into the summer transfer window, one of the biggest priorities for FC Barcelona is to sign a new pivot midfielder.

With Oriol Romeu’s signing not working out as planned, Xavi Hernandez has turned to Andreas Christensen as a solution in recent months. The Dane has performed well but is not seen as a long-term fix for the position.

As such, a new pivot is at the top of Barcelona’s to-do list for the summer, with Everton’s Amadou Onana being eyed as the priority target.

However, his valuation and increased competition for his services could become an issue for Barça, which is why they are keeping an eye on alternatives.

Khephren Thuram emerges as an option

Now, SPORT reports that Barcelona have set their sights on OGC Nice and France midfielder Khephren Thuram as an option to reinforce the pivot position.

Thuram, 23, has made a big impression for Nice and has even managed to break into the French national team on the back of his performances.

However, the midfielder’s contract with the Ligue 1 outfit expires in 2025, leaving him ripe for the taking this summer, with many clubs interested.

Khephren Thuram now on Barcelona’s agenda. (Photo by SYLVAIN THOMAS/AFP via Getty Images)

Barcelona, too, have now joined the hunt for Thuram, with the sporting staff, led by director Deco, seeing him as an option, as he seeks to add more physicality and power in midfield.

Thuram fits the criteria standing at around 1.90 m tall and boasting a strong physical frame. The midfielder’s game has evolved tactically as well, making him a viable option.

Competition for Thuram

However, there is likely to be plenty of competition for Thuram in the summer as a lot of clubs have taken note of him.

A few months ago, Barcelona’s arch-rivals Real Madrid had been touted as suitors, although that is no longer the case.

But several Premier League clubs have approached the 23-year-old’s entourage while AC Milan are also in the hunt.

Thuram’s market value currently stands at €35 million, but he could be available for a lower sum owing to his contract situation.

An exit from Nice looks nailed on this summer. What remains to be seen is if Barcelona make a move for the Frenchman.

*Player valuation in title obtained from transfermarkt.com on date of publication

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