FC Barcelona embark on their hunt to find the ideal replacement for the departing Sergio Busquets, and the quest to find a pivot continues. However, Barcelona are adamant that this position is one that is crucial for them, having reportedly become their number-one priority, and that it must be catered to by finding an elite-level replacement for the departing Blaugrana captain.
As per Mundo Deportivo, the candidates that have thus far been short-listed by those at the Catalan club are currently 5 in number. From Spain to Germany, and from Germany to England, Barcelona have ensured that they continue to scour across Europe to potentially find the ideal fit to take over a position that has long since been commandeered by the legendary Sergio Busquets. The following are the short-listed candidates thus far:
01: Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)
28-year-old Joshua Kimmich is a German central defensive midfielder who continues to attract interest from FC Barcelona following reports that he is currently unhappy with the ongoing management situation at Bayern Munich and would prefer a change in scenery. His cost would be around the same or slightly less than that of Martin Zubimendi.
02: Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)
Current holding midfielder for La Liga side Real Sociedad, the 24-year-old has long since garnered interest and admiration from Xavi Hernandez who believes that the Spaniard is the perfect stylistic replacement for Sergio Busquets. His cost at the moment remains his €60 million release clause.
03: Sofyan Amrabat (ACF Fiorentina)
Having been on Barca’s agenda for quite some time now, the 26-year-old Morroccan would love a move to Camp Nou, and his transfer is expected to cost around €20-25 million in total. He is considered the best possible alternative to the more economically unfeasible candidates.
04: Guido Rodriguez (Real Betis)
Contracted to Real Betis until 2024, the 29-year-old Argentine is seen as the cheapest possible option amongst all 5 candidates and he also remains a very solid player, being the undisputed starter at his club.
05: Ruben Neves (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
26-year-old Ruben Neves comes last on the list. Sportingly, he retains no consensus from the Barcelona technical or managerial staff, and his signing would purely be on the basis of economic benefit. The Portuguese midfielder’s arrival depends on several factors, most of them reliant on Barcelona youngster Ansu Fati and what his future dictates.
