Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Bayern Munich want star midfielder, European duo eyeing Inaki Pena, and more - October 29, 2024
The Barcelona bandwagon has shown no signs of slowing down this season. Fresh from a 4-0 mauling of Real Madrid, Hansi Flick's team are looking ahead to their upcoming LaLiga tie against Espanyol at home on Sunday, November 3.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich have set their sights on a Spanish midfielder. Elsewhere, two European giants are keeping a close eye on Inaki Pena.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from October 29, 2024.
Bayern Munich want Barcelona's Marc Casado
Bayern Munich have entered the race to sign Marc Casado, according to Fichajes.net. The Spanish midfielder has caught the eye with some assured performances for Barcelona this season, already drawing comparisons with the great Sergio Busquets.
Casado has appeared 12 times across competitions for the Catalans, including 10 starts, signifying his growing importance under Hansi Flick. The Bavarians are impressed with the 21-year-old and are eager to see him at the Allianz Arena.
With Joshua Kimmich's contract set to expire at the end of this season, the Bundesliga giants are already planning for the future. Casado could be a fine replacement for the German midfielder.
Ideally, Barcelona would not want to part ways with the Spaniard, who is under contract at Camp Nou until 2028. However, the Catalans' financial situation is well documented and Bayern Munich are eager to take advantage.
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Manchester City eyeing Inaki Pena
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and Manchester City are interested in Inaki Pena, according to Fichajes.net. The Spanish custodian has been thrust into action of late following the unfortunate injury to Marc-Andre ter Stegen.
Although Barcelona have roped in Wojciech Sczcesny to address the situation, Hansi Flick has decided to keep his faith in Pena. And the player has done superbly so far. He was particularly outstanding against Real Madrid in the 4-0 win over the weekend.
The 25-year-old now has five clean sheets in eight games for the Catalans this season and his efforts have turned heads the Etihad. Ederson's future remains uncertain, and Pena has apparently been identified as a possible successor for the Brazilian.
Elsewhere, the Parisians also have their eyes on the Spaniard and want him at the Parc des Princes to replace Gianluigi Donnarumma. Pena's contract at Camp Nou runs until 2026, but given his recent form, Barcelona might think again before letting him go.
Hansi Flick trusts Frenkie de Jong
Hansi Flick considers Frenkie de Jong a key part of his plans, according to journalist Sergi Capdevilla. The Dutch midfielder recently returned to action for Barcelona and has been in the thick of things of late.
Flick had closely monitored De Jong's progress as he recovered from an ankle injury this season. Now back to full fitness, the 27-year-old is being swiftly integrated into the first team by the German manager.
Flick highlighted his trust in De Jong by bringing him on at halftime against Real Madrid. And the player transformed the game, seizing control of midfield and helping the Catalans to a thumping 4-0 win. Flick is pleased with the Dutchman and despite the rising interest in his services, has no desire to let him go.