It would be unfair to boil down Barcelona’s struggles this season to just one position, but it seems the lack of a natural defensive midfielder held the team back in numerous games this season.
Xavi had to improvise in numerous ways, fielding Ilkay Gundogan, Andreas Christensen, Frenkie de Jong, and of course, Oriol Romeu in that role to only half-hearted success.
As such, reinforcing the pivot position becomes one of their biggest priorities heading into the summer transfer window.
The problem, however, is narrowing down the shortlist of several players down to one they can pursue in the summer. There is little to no margin of error either, with the Catalans financially in a terrible spot.
Barcelona’s big debate
As revealed to Barca Universal by reliable journalist Adrian Sanchez, the Barcelona board are in debate between two Premier League stars for their pivot signing in the summer.
These are namely, Everton’s Amadou Onana and Arsenal’s Jorginho.
Barcelona’s sporting director Deco wants the club to pursue Onana as his personal bet. The Belgian has attracted a lot of interest from elite clubs due to his ball-carrying ability, physicality, and defensive aptitude.
Unfortunately for Barca, Everton have placed a €60 million price tag on him, which is definitely unfeasible. Things can change should the Merseyside outfit get relegated, though.
On the contrary, there are people on the board who are pushing for a more contrasting profile in Jorginho, presumably due to his stylistic similarities to Sergio Busquets.
The Arsenal midfielder is out of a contract this summer, though, which means Barcelona can sign him on a free transfer, the idea of which will certainly appeal to them.
Barcelona sold on Kimmich
There is a third name on the list, though, which is Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich. He seemed to have the consensus of the board, but pursuing him could be difficult due to a number of reasons.
Bayern will likely ask for over €50 million for his services, which is definitely a huge roadblock for Barca.
Not to mention that a player of Kimmich’s repertoire will likely generate a number of suitors. The Blaugranes will not be able to compete with other teams in a bidding war.
Barca Universal’s take
Jorginho could definitely be an interesting bet for Barcelona, stylistically speaking. He will also arrive on a free transfer, which is ideal.
However, it must be considered that the Italian is already 32, and playing second-fiddle in an Arsenal midfield. He can give Barça a maximum of one good season before the club will need to scour the market for a replacement once again.
And should Onana and Kimmich be available on a similar price, Barcelona should opt for the former.
His ball-winning ability, coupled with superb physical and technical attributes, make him a unicorn midfielder who will thrive in the long term, especially in European duels.
The post Everton and Arsenal midfielders on table as Barcelona debate over new pivot appeared first on Barca Universal.
