Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans end Mikel Merino pursuit, club submit improved bid for Spanish ace, and more - July 29, 2024
Barcelona are working to hand Hansi Flick a squad capable of fighting for silverware next season. The German manager took charge at Camp Nou at the end of last season following Xavi's dismissal.
Meanwhile, the Catalans have ended their pursuit of Mikel Merino. Elsewhere, the La Liga giants have submitted an improved offer for a Spanish midfielder.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from July 29, 2024.
Barcelona end Mikel Merino pursuit
Barcelona have called time on their pursuit of Mikel Merino this summer, according to Barca Universal. The Spanish midfielder has emerged as a target for the Catalans after winning Euro 2024 with La Roja.
Merino has also entered the final year of his contract with Real Sociedad, making him a financially achievable target. New manager Hansi Flick is in the market for midfield reinforcements, with Oriol Romeu's future hanging in the balance.
Barcelona have eyed multiple candidates for the job, but Merino is a perfect fit. However, it now appears that the club have shelved their plans to move for the 28-year-old this summer.
The Catalans are focussing all their attention on securing the signature of Nico Williams and Dani Olmo. The club are already under financial distress and do not have the resources to spare for a move for Merino right now.
The La Liga giants will focus on the midfield only after they secure their priority targets. Interestingly, the Spanish midfielder is not short of options this summer. Atletico Madrid and Arsenal are also eyeing the player with interest, with the Gunners leading the race at the moment.
Catalans submit improved bid for Dani Olmo
Barcelona have submitted their second offer for Dani Olmo, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Spaniard has emerged as a priority target for Hansi Flick, with his versatility and technical prowess making him an ideal fit under the German manager.
The Catalans have already submitted an initial offer of €40m plus €20m in performance-linked add-ons for the 26-year-old. However, it has been turned down by RB Leipzig. The Bundesliga club are ready to let Olmo leave this summer, but only for a premium fee.
The La Liga giants have held advanced conversations with the player's representatives and are convinced that a deal is possible. They have now returned to the table with an improved offer for Leipzig to consider.
The German side are yet to respond to their offer, with no dearth of interest in the Spaniard at the moment. However, Olmo's desire to return to his former hunting ground puts Barcelona in the driving seat this summer.
The Catalans are currently putting all their efforts into securing the signature of Nico Williams. Once the 22-year-old's move is confirmed, they will push to complete a deal for his countryman.
Al-Nassr offer €100m for Raphinha
Al-Nassr are willing to break the bank for Raphinha this summer, according to SPORT. The Brazilian forward enjoyed a decent 2023/24 campaign with Barcelona, scoring 10 goals and setting up 13 more from 37 games.
However, he is no longer a guaranteed starter at Camp Nou, thanks to the emergence of Lamine Yamal. The Catalans' pursuit of Nico Williams has raised further questions about his future.
Raphinha wants to stay, although there's rising interest in his services. Recent reports have suggested that Arsenal are working on their opening offer for the 27-year-old. Aston Villa also have their eyes on the Brazilian as an option to replace Moussa Diaby.
Raphinha has admirers in Saudi Arabia as well, with Al-Nassr willing to offer €100m to secure his signature this summer. The La Liga giants would welcome such a bid, as it would be a huge help in addressing their financial concerns.
However, Barcelona are also open to offloading the player to the Premier League for a substantial fee. Given Raphinha's age, a return to England would make more sense. The final decision in the matter will be in the hands of the Brazilian.