FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY - MARCH 26: TV expert Lothar Matthäus looks on after the international friendly match between Germany and Netherlands at Deutsche Bank Park on March 26, 2024 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.

Lothar Matthaus fears Hansi Flick could tempt €50m star to sign for Barcelona

Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images

FC Barcelona have had a number of issues in their squad addressed by La Masia in recent seasons. This has saved the club a lot of money that they would have had to spend in the transfer window, which in their position might be very difficult.

The most impressive thing about La Masia players is just how ready they look at such a young age. Players like Gavi, Ansu Fati, Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi all looked like stars in the making when they broke into the first team at 16 or 17.

One player that Barcelona wanted to sign for some time now is Joshua Kimmich, from Bayern Munich. The club considered him their perfect player for the holding midfield role but the emergence of Marc Casado has made them forget all about the German.

However, as per German legend Lothar Matthaus as quoted by Mundo Deportivo, Hansi Flick could tempt Kimmich to join him at Barcelona, considering the bond the coach shares with the €50m-rated star. He said:

“Bayern has a great team, a great style of play, and a great atmosphere. But perhaps Kimmich wants to try something different. We know that at Barcelona there is a coach, Hansi Flick, who holds him in very high esteem.”

“I think it would be a shame if he left Bayern. He is an exemplary professional, and along with Musiala, he will be the face of the club in the future. Therefore, it would be a great loss if another top player, after Alaba, left on a free transfer. His situation has changed with Kompany. We need to leave the past behind and try to reach an agreement.”

Six months ago, Barcelona would have jumped at the chance of signing Kimmich from Bayern Munich as a free agent. However, they really have to ask themselves if they need the German in their squad any longer, after the emergence of Casado and Bernal.

Although it is not as much a priority as it was once upon a time, signing Kimmich would not be a bad option for a young squad. He can also provide cover for Jules Kounde at right-back and even allow the Frenchman to play as a center-back at times.

The next few months would give a clear picture of whether Kimmich is likely to sign a new contract with Bayern or not. It remains to be seen if Barcelona make an attempt to sign him and let’s wait and see how it plays out.

Tags Joshua Kimmich Lothar Matthaus