Joan Laporta and Xavi Hernández are hell-bent on reinforcing their right-back positions. The Spanish coach requires a balanced defense line this season.
Jules Koundé wanted to play the centre-back position this campaign. Also, Sergio Roberto desires to play as a midfielder, so the Culers don’t currently have a standard RB.
As a result, the La Liga side have been linked with João Cancelo of Manchester City. Xavi Hernández doesn’t want to settle for less in the 2023-2024 season.
Of course, Barcelona have been able to welcome some new signings this summer transfer window. Which means they are ready to go far in the league this campaign.
Reportedly, João Cancelo has already agreed personal terms with Barcelona. Which means he actually wants to join the Bluagranas in La Liga this season.
The Portuguese wing-back spent the 2022-2023 campaign on loan at Bayern Munich. And he’s currently not in Pep Guardiola’s plans at Manchester City.
Manchester, Barcelona haven’t made any official offers to the Citizens over João Cancelo. Therefore, it’s most unlikely that the Portuguese magnifico joins the Culers.
At the same time, Saudi Arabian clubs show interest in the Portugal international. Nevertheless, he would like to join Barcelona in La Liga, despite no green between both clubs.
Regardless, Xavi Hernández’s side have set their gaze on Arnau Martínez of Girona. They see him as a young and ideal alternative to Cancelo.
Frankly, Barcelona cannot dabble in the 2023-2024 season with no standard right-back. As a result, they would have a new RB before September 1st.
Arnau Martínez is just 20-year-old. Meanwhile, he can play as a centre-back or right-back. Therefore, he attracts Xavi Hernández due to his versatility.
The Spanish gaffer and Barcelona see him as mature. Even though he’s still young, having been 20-year-old. However, he’s La Liga proven, knowing about the league.
Manchester City won’t sell João for a small fee. They placed €70 million on him during the January transfer window, after his loan move to Bayern Munich.
At the moment, it’s very unlikely that Barcelona will sign a 29-year-old full-back worth €70 million. Because of their current financial situation in Europe’s top-5 leagues.
Meanwhile, Arnau Martínez’s release clause is just €20 million. Of course, that looks affordable for the Blaugranas. And he has the ability to boost the defense line.
Because of Arnau’s importance in the squad. It’s reported that Girona don’t want to negotiate his exit this summer transfer window, wanting to keep him.
Simply put, Barcelona have now set their eyes on Arnau Martínez. They perceive him as an alternative to João Cancelo of Manchester City.