Barcelona add Eredivisie star as surprise candidate to strengthen defence this summer: Reports
Barcelona are reportedly keen to sign Feyenoord defender Lutsharel Geertruida in the upcoming summer window.
Geertruida, 22, has established himself as an important player for Feyenoord since making his debut in October 2017. He has helped them lift three trophies, including the famed Eredivisie title in the ongoing 2022-23 campaign.
An offensive-minded right-back blessed with heading and stamina, Geertruida has turned heads with his fine performances for his boyhood club this season. He has registered three goals and two assists in 39 matches so far.
According to Fichajes, Barcelona have identified the Netherlands international as a potential addition to their squad this summer. Blaugrana manager Xavi Hernandez is keen to snap up the defender due to his offensive profile.
The Catalan giants' top brass has added the former Sparta Rotterdam youth player to their shortlist of right-backs to offer Xavi a host of options for next season. They are willing to meet the Dutchman's price tag of €20 million.
Should Geertruida secure a permanent move to the La Liga champions, he would provide solid competition to Jules Kounde and Sergi Roberto. He could also step in as either a centre-back or a holding midfielder if needed.
Overall, the 2018 KNVB Cup winner has scored 15 goals and provided five assists in 149 matches for Feyenoord.
Apart from Geertruida, Barcelona are currently monitoring a number of other right-backs. Juan Foyth, Diogo Dalot, Jeremie Frimpong, Benjamin Pavard, and Thomas Meunier are few of the club's transfer targets this summer.
Barcelona keen to sell forward despite player's wish to stay: Reports
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona are interested in cashing in on Ferran Torres ahead of the start of the upcoming 2023-24 season. However, the forward is unwilling to depart Xavi Hernandez's outfit.
Torres, 23, has struggled to shine at the Blaugrana since arriving from Manchester City for €55 million in the winter of 2022. He has scored a mere 14 goals and laid out eight assists in 67 games across all competitions so far.
A right-footed versatile attacker blessed with pace and shooting, the 35-cap Spain international has dropped down in the pecking order at the Catalan club of late. He has started just 17 games out of his 41 appearances this season.
Aston Villa have expressed an interest in snapping up the Valencia academy graduate this summer. Villans boss Unai Emery is an admirer of the player and is keen to make the most of his current situation, as per Football Insider.