Sergio Busquets has been one of the most integral pieces in Barcelona squad for more than a decade now and has contributed immensely to the silverware that the club has won during his time at the club.
However, as the end of Sergio Busquets’ time at Barcelona approaches, his longevity, established position in the squad, and unique skillset make it a herculean task for the club management to properly replace him.
One of the options the club has been eyeing as a potential replacement for Busquets recently is Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, but landing him in Catalonia has become almost an impossibility for now.
Barcelona were working towards a transfer of Zubimendi in the Summer of 2023, but a now a recent report from Relevo claims that the transfer fee and form of payment involved in the transfer of Zubimendi make it difficult for Barcelona to pursue this option.
The youngster has a release clause of €60 million, and La Blaugrana have been unable to convince La Real to lower this valuation of the player. Furthermore, FC Barcelona understand that they will be required to pay the entire amount upfront, which they cannot afford right now owing to the calamitous financial position of the club.
His contract term going up to 2027 and interest from English clubs further complicate the operation for the Catalan giants. FC Barcelona have a list of alternatives in hand, and one of the most viable options that the club can consider now is Wolverhampton’s Ruben Neves.
Club President Joan Laporta is also in favor of bringing the Portuguese pivot to Barcelona and believes his relationship with Neves’ agent, Jorge Mendes, will facilitate this transfer operation. However, Xavi is skeptical of Neves’ ability to play in his system and does not believe this transfer will significantly improve the squad.
Ngolo Kante is another option under consideration at Barcelona, and his uncertain contract situation at Chelsea makes him a viable option for the Catalan club. Ilkay Gundogan of Manchester City was also being considered but has virtually been discarded as an option because of his age and declining physical prowess.
