Barcelona have not forgotten about €60 million La Liga midfielder – report

As far as priorities go, signing a defensive midfielder and potentially a left-winger in the summer transfer window would automatically elevate Barcelona’s team to a different level.

The Catalans have done exceedingly well with Andreas Christensen playing the pivot role and the regular switches between Ferran Torres, Joao Felix, and sometimes Pedri/Fermin Lopez in a four-man midfield setup at left-wing.

The problem lies in Barcelona’s finances, though, with the club unable to pull through with signings.

In an ideal world, the club would have signed a first-class replacement for Sergio Busquets already. Unfortunately, though, not a lot could be done, and Oriol Romeu was brought in for €3.5 million.

Xavi’s preference, though, was a different La Liga midfielder.

Barcelona still dreaming about Zubimendi

Xavi considered Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi the ideal replacement for Busquets at the club. The club tried to back his demand, but could not muster up the €60 million to trigger his release clause.

Ahead of the 2024 summer transfer window, though, Barcelona are targeting a move for a holding midfielder, and according to SPORT (h/t FCB World), have not forgotten about Zubimendi.

The player was a subject of a lot of interest last summer, but having recently extended his contract with Real Sociedad, did not consider leaving the Basque county.

Arsenal and Bayern Munich were also reportedly interested in the Spanish midfielder, and could return to pursue a move for him come the summer.

Barcelona’s other options

While a lot depends on Barcelona being able to sell players and return to 1:1 spending in La Liga, they are definitely considering a fair few options to reinforce the pivot position.

The blaugranes have been long-time admirers of Joshua Kimmich, who is expected to leave Bayern Munich in the summer. He will also cost around €50-60 million, though.

Feyenoord’s Mats Wieffer is also on the shortlist, and priced at €100 million or so, Bruno Guimaraes would be a dream signing for Barcelona.

Last, but definitely not the least, Everton’s Amadou Onana is a strong contender, but also a difficult signing due to the €60 million price tag slapped on him. Although, the Merseyside outfit being relegated will definitely help the cause.