Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans receive Leroy Sane boost, Chelsea eyeing Dutch ace, and more - October 5, 2024
Barcelona are putting together final preparations ahead of their game against Alaves at Mendizorroza on Sunday, October 6, in La Liga. The Catalans arrive at the tie in good form, having registered a 5-0 win over Young Boys in the Champions League in midweek.
Meanwhile, the Catalans have received a boost in their pursuit of Leroy Sane. Elsewhere, Chelsea are interested in a Dutch midfielder.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from October 5, 2024.
Barcelona receive Leroy Sane boost
Leroy Sane would prefer to join Barcelona if he leaves Bayern Munich, according to journalist Christian Falk. The German forward's future at the Allianz Arena has been subject to speculation following the arrival of Michael Olise this summer.
Sane has appeared just four times across competitions this season under Vincent Kompany, none of which have been starts. His situation has alerted multiple clubs across the continent, especially since his contract expires at the end of this season.
The Catalans are facing financial difficulties and are looking for cost-effective options to bolster their attack. Sane could be a fine option for the job, although he is also being eyed by Newcastle United.
However, in his column for Caught Offside, Falk added that the player would prefer to move to Camp Nou instead of St. James' Park.
“At the moment, Leroy Sané has to keep an eye on the market, as he’s still in talks with Bayern Munich and they remain his first option. He would love to stay, but he sees it’s not getting easier with Michael Olise in the squad. He has to see how many clubs are really interested in the summer,” wrote Falk.
He continued:
“There were rumours about Real Madrid in the past, but I think that avenue is closed off at the moment following Kylian Mbappe’s move. Barcelona are always looking out for free agents, but I’m not sure if they can pay the salary. Still, it’s always an option, and I think he’d rather join Barcelona than Newcastle.“
Sane has 49 goals and 50 assists from 179 games across competitions for the Bundesliga giants so far.
Chelsea eyeing Frenkie de Jong
Chelsea are keeping a close eye on Frenkie de Jong, according to Fichajes. The Dutchman's future with Barcelona has been subject to speculation for a while.
De Jong registered his first appearance of the season for the La Liga giants against Young Boys in midweek as he builds his fitness after an ankle injury. His contract expires in 2026 and he hasn't agreed to an extension yet.
The Catalans would prefer to keep him at the club, but given his exorbitant wages, they are not averse to letting him go. Enzo Maresca is apparently a fan of the 27-year-old and sees him as an ideal fit in his tactics at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues are apparently considering Frenkie de Jong as a replacement for Carney Chukwuemeka, who is likely to leave next year. If the Dutchman decides not to sign an extension with Barcelona, Chelsea are likely to move for him in 2025.
Rivaldo warns Hansi Flick about silverware
Barcelona legend Rivaldo has warned Hansi Flick that he will have to follow up his good start at the club with silverware. The German manager took charge at Camp Nou this summer and has registered eight wins and two defeats in his first ten games.
The Catalans are at the top of the league and have scored 31 goals in all competitions. The likes of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha have rediscovered their mojo under Flick, while he has helped Lamine Yamal continue his steady rise.
However, speaking recently as cited by Mundo Deportivo, Rivaldo warned that the La Liga giants should not get too ahead of themselves.
“It’s just that in the big teams like Barça everything depends on the results. It is true that Flick’s Barça is playing phenomenally, but there is a lot of the championship ahead. Lots of Champions, lots of League, the Cup. I would be prudent and would wait until the end of the season,” said Rivaldo.
He continued:
“In Barça, it is only worth reaching the finals and winning titles. If you don’t bring a title to the windows, the fans and the press question you. But having said that. I see a different Barça than last season and I think it already has everything it needs to win important titles. But, you have to wait.”
Barcelona are the early favorites to win the La Liga title this season and are level on points with reigning champions Real Madrid but have a game in hand.