Barcelona offered chance to sign ex-PSG midfielder after talks to sign Guido Rodriguez collapse: Reports
Barcelona have pivoted to signing Roma midfielder Leandro Paredes. According to Spanish outlet Sport, the Argentine will be allowed to leave the Giallorossi at a reduced price this summer, with the Catalan side interested.
This comes after their interest in signing free-agent midfielder Guido Rodriguez. However, talks with the 30-year-old who last played for Real Betis have broken down.
Paredes has just one year left on his deal with Roma and is not believed to be in manager Daniele de Rossi's plans. He joined the Serie A side on a two-year deal last season and was a notable presence in the squad, notching 49 appearances in which he bagged five goals and seven assists.
It remains to be seen if Barcelona will pursue the 30-year-old Argentine. Sporting director Deco is keen on adding a physical presence in midfield, targeting players like Everton's Amadou Onana and Real Sociedad's Mikel Merino, a mould Paredes does not fit.
Another midfield option offered to the Catalan giants was Juventus' Adrien Rabiot. The Frenchman could join the club on a free transfer but according to Spanish outlet Jijantes FC, he could command a high salary, something that Barcelona may not be able to offer due to their financial constraints.
Spain star's club send strong message amidst interest from Barcelona
Athletic Club have indicated their desire to keep hold of star attacker Nico Williams by making a post on X/Twitter after the forward's impressive performance in Euro 2024. Following Spain's 4-1 win over Georgia in the Round of 16 on Sunday (June 30), the 21-year-old handed over his jersey to a fan wearing the club's jersey.
They posted on X with the caption:
“Nico Williams is well aware he belongs."
Despite signing a contract extension in December, the player has been extensively linked to a move to one of Europe's top clubs. Barcelona have identified him as their primary target for the summer transfer window after he bagged five goals and 14 assists in 31 La Liga games last season.
His contract has a €55 million release clause, something that Barcelona may find difficult to pay amidst their financial difficulties. The addition of Williams on the left wing, combined with the emergence of Lamine Yamal on the right, could make La Blaugrana's attack a force to reckon with.
Apart from Barcelona, multiple Premier League clubs have also shown interest in him. Spanish outlet Sport claims that Chelsea are interested but the attacker prefers a move to the Catalan giants.