FC Barcelona have a tough summer schedule ahead of them in the transfer window. They already know that changes are due in the upcoming summer, and the club wants to be prepared to make them. Beyond just a managerial change, Barcelona also have other objectives to keep an eye on.
When it comes to Xavi’s departure, Barcelona has names such as Hansi Flick already on their agenda. However, they also hope to do a proper revamp of the squad and bring in new signings that could help them revitalize the team.
Out of the several positions that they want to bring in new arrivals in, the left winger position is a standout one. One of the big names that they are now closely following in that specific position is none other than Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma who plays for Brighton and Hove Albion.
According to SPORT, there are several reasons behind why Barcelona want the 26-year-old winger. Currently a player under the instructions of Italian coach Robert De Zerbi, he has learned his ways both in England and in European football.
When it comes to his skill set, Barça believe he remains one of the only naturally adept wingers left in Europe. Possessing a unique ability to disable and dismantle defensive structures through his individual brilliance, Barcelona believe he would bring a specific kind of quality that many clubs desire but lack.
Moreover, Mitoma’s dribbling is nothing short of an extraordinary development. Despite receiving an opportunity to go pro at the age of 16, the winger instead chose to continue his studies. He even ended up making his entire thesis on dribbling and analyzed it in great depth.
Furthermore, it seems to have translated pretty well into his professional career. This season, he has completed 35 dribbles in the Premier League, and 8 in the Europa League. He averages 2.1 dribbles per game in England, and 1.33 over in European football. Moreover, he has three goals and six assists to his name as well.
Moreover, they believe that Ansu Fati could be key in the operation itself. With the Spanish winger already playing there on loan from Barcelona, the Catalan club believes that they can use him as a bargaining chip to reduce the price of the Japanese winger should they pursue him.
With a market value of approximately €50 million attached to his name, he definitely will not be cheap. However, with Fati’s inclusion in a potential deal, that figure could be lowered. At the moment, Barcelona really seem to appreciate him, and his qualities speak for themselves.
