Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans eyeing Manchester United star, club learn Joshua Kimmich price, and more - June 27, 2024
Barcelona are hoping to get back to their best under the guidance of new manager Hansi Flick. The German was roped in last month following the club's decision to part ways with Xavi.
Meanwhile, the Catalans are interested in a Manchester United forward. Elsewhere, the Spanish giants can sign Joshua Kimmich for a reduced fee this summer.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from June 27, 2024.
Barcelona eyeing Jadon Sancho
Barcelona have set their sights on Jadon Sancho, according to SPORT. The English forward is said to have a misunderstanding with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United and will likely leave Old Trafford this summer.
Sancho spent the second half of the 2023/24 campaign on loan to Borussia Dortmund and did admirably at his former hunting ground. The 24-year-old registered three goals and three assists from 21 games across competitions.
The Catalans have been offered the chance to sign Sancho this summer, with the Red Devils ready to let him go for £51m. However, the La Liga giants have no desire to break the bank for the Englishman and are only willing to consider a loan move.
Sancho could be a fine addition to Hansi Flick's side and could add another dimension to Barcelona's attack. However, the Premier League giants are likely to push for a permanent deal this year.
Catalans learn Joshua Kimmich price tag
Barcelona have to pay €30-40m to secure the services of Joshua Kimmich this summer, according to BILD. The German midfielder will enter the final year of his contract with Bayern Munich next month and hasn't agreed to a renewal yet.
The Bavarians are locked in talks for a new deal but are wary of losing him for free next year. As such, they are willing to consider the player's departure this summer for less than his €50m market value.
The La Liga giants are long-term admirers of the 29-year-old and remain keen to secure his services. However, their financial situation could put them on the back foot in the race for the German this year.
The likes of Manchester City, Liverpool, Real Madrid and Arsenal also admire Kimmich and have the financial muscle to script a move. Meanwhile, Kimmich reportedly wants €20m in annual wages, which could also rule the Catalans out of the race.
Former player advises Barcelona to seek Robert Lewandowski's successor
Barcelona legend Rivaldo has advised the club to lay down succession plans for Robert Lewandowski. The veteran striker endured a difficult 2023/24 campaign, but still managed 26 goals and nine assists from 49 games.
The Pole is reportedly looking forward to playing under Hansi Flick next season. However, Lewandowski will turn 36 in August this year and is expected to slow down soon.
Speaking recently, as cited by Barca Universal, Rivaldo warned that age and injuries could take a toll on the Pole.
“Barcelona must start thinking about a replacement. A team like this has to have the best in the world playing with them. And that also means keeping an eye on the best players on the market in all positions, including that of the centre striker. Lewandowski is a global crack, it is so, but we sometimes know that age and injuries can take their toll,” said Rivaldo.
He continued:
“I hope that now Lewandowski can rest, that he recovers to be back in Barça’s pre-season. He can still have good years of football. Let’s remember that he has been named even the best player in the world and that he has a beautiful football history behind him. I just hope that age doesn’t take its toll.”
The Catalans had brought in Vitor Roque in January to eventually replace Lewandowski, but the Brazilian has failed to live up to expectations.