Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans eyeing English ace, club learn Luis Diaz price, and more - August 13, 2024
Barcelona are looking to usher in a new era under Hansi Flick, who took charge at Camp Nou this summer. The German manager was roped in as Xavi's replacement after an underwhelming campaign.
Meanwhile, the Catalans are interested in an English right-back. Elsewhere, the La Liga giants have learnt Liverpool's asking price for Luis Diaz.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from August 13, 2024.
Barcelona eyeing Trent Alexander-Arnold
Barcelona have entered the race to sign Trent Alexander-Arnold, according to The Daily Mail. The English right-back is among the finest in his position in the world at the moment.
However, the 25-year-old has entered the final year of his contract with Liverpool and is yet to agree to a new deal yet. With Arne Slot taking over from Jurgen Klopp at Anfield this summer, Alexander-Arnold's future has been thrown up in the air.
Recent reports have suggested that Real Madrid are already hot on the heels of the Englishman. Los Blancos are plotting to secure the player's services in a Bosman move next summer.
The Catalans have now joined the fray and are ready to battle their bitter rivals for the 25-year-old. Hansi Flick remains in the market for a new right-back this year, with Joao Cancelo's proposed arrival from Manchester City hanging in the balance.
Barcelona are eyeing cost-effective options in the market this year and are convinced that the Englishman would be open to a move to Camp Nou. However, the Merseyside club remain confident of tying their prized asset down to a new deal soon.
Catalans learn Luis Diaz price
Barcelona will have to pay a premium fee to secure the services of Luis Diaz, according to The Athletic. The Catalans were prioritising a move for Nico Williams this summer and were willing to pay his €58m release clause.
Hansi Flick has already added Dani Olmo to his roster, but was hoping to bring in Williams to strengthen his attack. However, recent reports have suggested that the player has opted to stay put at Athletic Bilbao this summer.
Barcelona have already begun looking for alternatives. Diaz has been on their radar for a while and they now have the chance to secure his services.
Liverpool are apparently willing to let the Colombian leave this summer for €58m. The player has previously insisted that he remains settled at Anfield. However, it has been reported that he dreams of a move to Camp Nou.
The Catalans have the unused funds from the Williams deal which they could invest in the 27-year-old.
Sergi Roberto confirms Camp Nou exit
Sergi Roberto has confirmed that he is leaving Barcelona this summer. The Spanish utility man rose through the ranks at Camp Nou and has appeared 373 times across competitions for the club till date.
However, he has struggled for first team action in recent times. Last season, the 32-year-old was handed the armband, but registered just 24 appearances across competitions. His contract expired this summer and the club have opted to let him go.
Sharing the news via social media, Roberto added that he is incredibly proud to have represented the La Liga giants.
"Culés, the time has come to thank you for all the journey we have made together. Visca Barça, forever and ever! From my debut, to being captain and winning every possible title. I have shared the dressing room with my idols and with the best players and coaches in the world, a real privilege,” said Roberto.
He continued:
“I leave proud. Proud of having given everything for 18 years. Of always having put the interests of the team and the club before my own. And proud to be the captain of the club of my life."
Roberto is scheduled to attend a farewell press conference on Tuesday.