That Barcelona are in the market for a new right-back is not a secret. The Blaugrana have made it a priority to sign a new player in the position after the gamble on Hector Bellerin this past summer failed to reap rewards.
The former Arsenal man has struggled for form and fitness and with his contract expiring in the summer, a new deal seems unlikely. At the same time, Sergi Roberto will also become a free agent in 2023, which would leave Xavi with no natural right-back in the squad.
A move for a new player in the position was being planned for January itself. However, Financial Fair Play problems have meant that Barça will now look to reinforce the right-back slot in the summer.
According to SPORT, the Catalan giants are on the lookout for a top-level operator to improve their options in the right full-back slot.
It has led to links with the likes of Benjamin Pavard and Thomas Meunier, due to their experience at the highest level as well as their potential availability in the summer.
Juan Foyth is another target, although a move for him looks unlikely due to Villarreal’s massive demands for the World Cup winner.
Now, though, another name has popped up on the agenda of Barcelona in the form of Napoli and Italy right-back Giovanni Di Lorenzo.
As per the report, the 29-year-old is very well-liked by the sports department at the club and is seen as someone who meets the requirements of the right-back that the Blaugrana are looking for.
Di Lorenzo has been at Napoli for more than three years now and has been a regular on the right side of the defence. He is also a constant fixture in the Italian national team and won the UEFA Euro 2020 with the Azzurri last year.
The 29-year-old is good in both attacking and defensive facets of his game, has good character and technical ability, and is experienced, which makes him an ideal fit for Barcelona as per the report.
To that end, the Catalan giants are probing the possibility of his signing and have sounded out parties to learn his asking price. Given his contract with Napoli runs until 2026, the Partenopei could demand a steep sum for him, however.
