Despite their financial constraints, Barcelona have done fairly well in terms of transfers arrival this summer. They have roped in Ilkay Gundogan and Inigo Martinez on free transfers while Vitor Roque looks set to join the club in the near future.
The Blaugrana have now set their sights on Oriol Romeu. They have been in negotiations with Girona recently, as they look to bring the former youth player back to the club. Xavi Hernandez considers Romeu to be an excellent short-term replacement for Sergio Busquets.
There have been some setbacks along the way, but as per Gerard Romero, Barcelona may soon secure the signing of the former Southampton star.
The journalist claims Barça should complete the Romeu deal between this week and next week. This should come as a major relief to Barcelona fans, even though the Girona midfielder was not someone the club had at the top of their wishlist.
Xavi is aware of the fact that Romeu was far from the club’s desired option to replace Busquets. But he wants to complete the deal soon and have the player at his disposal, as soon as possible.
Romeu’s defensive acumen, coupled with his experience and leadership could prove to be handy for Barcelona next season, potentially allowing more freedom to attack-minded midfielders in Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Gavi, and new signing Gundogan.
However, the deal is far from done. Barcelona must still reach an agreement with Girona over transfer fees. The midfielder was reportedly set to cost around €8 million, but it appears Barcelona are looking to lower the cost of the operation by including players in the deal.
Estanis Pedrola, Nico Gonzalez and Pablo Torre are among the options in contention to move the other way, even though Barcelona are unlikely to sanction a permanent sale for either of the three.
Either way, both clubs could reach an agreement in the coming days with a transfer expected to be completed between this week and the next.
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