Barcelona hold slight advantage over Real Madrid as Catalans consider move to sign 31-year-old free agent: Reports
La Liga champions Barcelona reportedly hold a slight advantage over Real Madrid in signing Roberto Firmino this summer. The Liverpool forward is set to become a free agent at the end of the season and has already stated he wishes for a new challenge.
Barcelona and Real Madrid are reportedly looking for a backup centre-forward in the summer transfer window. Both Robert Lewandowski (34) and Karim Benzema (35) have been decent this season, however, both teams haven't had a reliable substitute to call upon in times of need.
Moreover, Benzema has struggled with injury issues and has only featured in 22 La Liga games this season. This comes as no surprise, considering his age.
Hence, both Joan Laporta and Florentina Perez want to sign a new affordable forward that is willing to accept a secondary role. A possible option would be Liverpool's Roberto Firmino.
The 31-year-old has completely transformed the false nine role and has proven over the years that he is a capable goalscorer. He is also exceptional with his link-up play and ability to find pockets of space. Firmino is a Champions League and Premier League winner and would improve either of Barcelona or Real Madrid.
According to El Nacional, Barcelona have the upper hand over Real Madrid in signing the Brazilian. Even though Los Blancos like him because he shares traits with Benzema, the Blaugrana are reportedly pushing harder to sign Firmino so far.
Real Madrid are favorites over Barcelona to sign Joao Cancelo: Reports
While the Blaugrana may hold the edge to sign Roberto Firmino over Real Madrid, according to SPORT, the latter are more likely to sign Joao Cancelo this summer.
Joao Cancelo fell out with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola in the winter transfer window and was subsequently loaned out to Bayern Munich for the rest of the season. The Portuguese full-back has been decent but has failed to impress the club hierarchy.
It is highly unlikely the Bavarians will permanently sign Cancelo from Manchester City this summer. It also appears he has no place in the City squad either and will have to find a new club at the end of the season.
Manchester City's asking price is set to be around €70 million, which comes as no surprise as Cancelo can be one of the best full-backs in the world when in-form.
Barcelona are in search of a right-back for next season and are interested in his services, however, due to financial reasons, would seek a loan deal. Real Madrid are aware of their plight and are willing to negotiate with Manchester City for a permanent transfer.
The Cityzens reportedly do not want another loan deal, hence Real Madrid almost certainly have the advantage over Barcelona.