Barcelona finds itself actively engaged in the pursuit of a defensive midfielder to bolster the squad.
An array of names have been shortlisted with the club recognizing a high-profile acquisition in the defensive midfield department is imperative to fight for trophies on all fronts.
However, as the search operation is underway, all options are being meticulously evaluated, and certain names are gradually being chalked off the wishlist as the club’s delicate financial state is kept in mind.
Zubimendi and Kimmich out of the equation
Indeed according to Miguel Sanz via SPORT, Martin Zubimendi and Joshua Kimmich, two players who have incessantly been linked with the Catalan giants, are completely ruled out.
The report argues that Barcelona considers either one of their signings unfeasible because Barça are unable to meet these players’ pricy valuations.
Kimmich’s case especially casts doubts, as registering the German also appears to be an improbable scenario.
Last summer, Barcelona could not fulfill Xavi’s demands to sign Zubimendi due to their fickle financial situation.
And now, with the club yet to have recovered in that aspect, activating his €60 million release clause does not seem like the most plausible scenario.
Similarly, Kimmich, who holds immense significance at Bayern Munich, is set to cost a comparable amount.
Previous reports have claimed Bayern Munich’s interest in forming a duopoly of Kimmich and Zubimendi in midfield, with the Bavarians eager to beat Barcelona to the signing of Zubimendi.
As such, unless a major financial boost does not favor their fortunes, Barcelona will be obliged to explore alternative and cost-effective options.
Bruno Guimaraes, Youssouf Fofana, and Amadou Onana are understood to be some players on Barcelona’s radar.
Time will unveil how Barcelona plan on fortifying the defensive midfield position, but what’s certain is that the planning for Busquets’ successor is taking shape.
