In the hunt for a new pivot, Barcelona are surveying a variety of options. Passing on Sergio Busquets’ mantle to a worthy successor remains the top priority for Barça and is seen as Xavi’s biggest demand entering into next season.
Busquets transformed the role of a defensive pivot, having established an unparalleled legacy at the base of midfield. A list of options to replace him has been prepared, with a report by Esport3 claiming Dani Parejo has emerged as one of the names being considered.
Financial deficiencies have led to the Catalan giants searching for alternatives that may not have been on top of the wish list previously.
Xavi’s biggest wish continues to be acquiring Martin Zubimendi, priced at €60 million, but his arrival looks unfeasible as of now.
As such, Parejo is a player being looked at with scrutiny by the recruitment department at Barcelona. While the report states that the Spanish midfield maestro is by no means a priority for the club, his skillset fits the requirements needed to emulate Busquets’ presence.
Parejo, performer of the penultimate pass, is not the man for the final ball, but the one who sets up the final ball. The Villarreal man is a great distributor, capable of finding teammates from a distance and offering assistance in the final third.
The Spaniard can defend in the middle of the field, influence the game’s tempo, and break up enemy attacks at a high level. Such traits particularly appeal to Barcelona.
The 34-year-old midfielder has already spent time on Barça’s radars. Even former manager Ernesto Valverde called Parejo when he was playing for Valencia, but Parejo turned down the offer.
Although he still has one year left on his contract with Villarreal, he has the option of forcing a move.
At 34 years of age, it is safe to say Parejo is on his last legs and will not present a long-term role. However, if the Catalans fail to obtain a top pivot within the market, Parejo’s reported €6 million transfer fees may be worth paying for the short term.
The La Liga legend will also likely appreciate the opportunity to end his career in one of Europe’s top clubs.
