Barcelona unwilling to sign veteran star despite recent transfer links - Reports
Barcelona have reportedly decided against pursuing a deal with Paris Saint-Germain for Danilo Pereira. The Portuguese defensive midfielder has been deemed surplus to requirements at the Parc des Princes.
Spanish journalist Matteo Moretto (via Football Espana) reports that Barca aren't interested in Danilo. The Portugal international's agent is Jorge Mendes who has a good relationship with the Catalans president Joan Laporta.
However, Barcelona don't want to move for Danilo, 32, who has yet to make an appearance for PSG this season and doesn't look to be part of Luis Enrique's plans. He made 34 appearances across competitions during the 2023-24 campaign, mostly at center-back for the Parisians.
The Blaugrana may have considered the former FC Porto man due to his versatility. Ilkay Gundogan left Camp Nou earlier this summer on a free transfer to rejoin Manchester City, and there is an injury crisis with Frenkie de Jong sidelined.
It looks as though Hansi Flick won't be getting a replacement for Gundogan before the transfer window closes today (August 30). The Catalans have Eric Garcia and Marc Casado as options in holding midfield.
Danilo was once one of PSG's most important players, and his versatility was a major benefit. He's been with the Ligue 1 giants since July 2021 but isn't headed for Catalonia.
"The story is closed" - Hansi Flick ruled out Eric Garcia departing Barcelona
Garcia's future has been uncertain amid a lack of game time recently at Barcelona. The Spanish defender spent last season on loan at Girona where he earned more game time.
The former Manchester City centre-back has been linked with a return to the Estadi Motilivi, perhaps permanently. He is heading into the final year of his contract with Barca.
Flick spoke about Garcia's situation and insisted the Spaniard would stay with the club. He said (via 90min):
"Eric Garcia stays at Barca and the story is closed."
Barcelona had been linked with Bayer Leverkusen's Jonathan Tah to reinforce their defense. A move for the German looks unlikely with only hours left in the transfer window.
Flick talked up Garcia as an option to help out in midfield:
"We have two options, I will leave you with these options: Marc Casado, and also Eric can play this position. He's more a defender but also played here in matches when he came in, also in training and he did really good."
Garcia, 23, has made 72 appearances for Barca since arriving from Manchester City in July 2021. He impressed at Girona last season as they staged an unlikely La Liga title challenge.