FC Barcelona are bracing themselves for a busy summer ahead. Despite the ongoing Negreira scandal, coupled with their economic woes, it will be imperative for the club to strengthen its ranks prior to the start of the new campaign.
At the same time, Barça’s options in the market are limited due to Financial Fair Play regulations. The club, therefore, may only target free agents that can come without having to pay a premium.
To that end, Gerard Romero reports that Ilkay Gundogan is the club’s only realistic target for the summer, as far as their hunt for a new midfielder is concerned.
Currently plying his trade for Manchester City, Gundogan has been on the radar of Barcelona for quite some time now. With his contract at Etihad expiring at the end of the season, the Catalans sense a market opportunity to secure his services on a free transfer.
Barcelona already share an excellent relationship with Gundogan’s agent and the two parties had even met recently.
While Gundogan has not ruled out the possibility of renewal at Man City, he could be open to a move to Camp Nou as well. His experience, leadership and technical prowess could make him an ideal asset for Xavi Hernandez, as he desperately looks for a new interior midfielder.
Not to mention, the German international is capable of operating as a defensive midfielder as well, which could make him a potential replacement for Sergio Busquets.
The ageing midfielder’s contract at Camp Nou expires in the summer. Although Barcelona are likely to put forth a renewal, it will include a substantial salary cut, thus raising questions on whether or not the Spaniard will prolong his stay in Catalonia.
Gundogan, therefore, could indeed prove to be a useful addition for Barcelona, should they be able to convince the German to make the jump to Camp Nou.
