Barcelona keeping a watch on Ilkay Gundogan. According to reports, Barcelona is considering Alex Baena of Villarreal as a possible replacement for Ilkay Gundogan of Manchester City.
In case their pursuit of Gundogan is unsuccessful, according to ESPN (via Barca Universal), the Blaugrana are keeping an eye on Baena’s status at Estadi de la Ceràmica. This season, the 21-year-old Spanish player has excelled in La Liga, recording 12 goals and six assists in 48 games across all competitions.
Barcelona manager Xavi has emphasized that finding a talented midfielder is a top priority this summer, which is why they are interested in Gundogan. At the end of this month, when his contract ends, the captain of Manchester City is expected to become a free agent.
The 32-year-old has been in outstanding form this season, contributing seven assists and 11 goals in 51 games in various tournaments. He contributed significantly to City’s treble achievement, scoring twice in a 2-1 victory over Manchester United in the FA Cup final.
Barcelona will need a Plan B, and it seems that Baena is it in case Gundogan decides to extend his stay at the Etihad. With the Yellow Submarine, the Spanish midfielder agreed to a new contract that raised his previous €35 million release clause. The exit clause fee is undisclosed but his deal now runs until 2028.
A deal for Baena may fail due to Barca’s financial issues. According to reports, the freshly crowned La Liga champions are only permitted to spend 40% of their earnings. The summer transfer market will therefore depend heavily on player sales.
Jordi Alba, a legend of Barcelona, has offers from the MLS, Saudi Arabia, and Europe:
Jordi Alba has a lot of choices. After 11 years at Camp Nou, where he established himself as a Blaugrana legend, Jordi Alba has left Barcelona. The Spanish left-back had 459 appearances in various leagues, contributing 99 assists and 27 goals. He won five Copa del Rey cups, the Champions League, and six La Liga championships.
His future is a subject of increasing speculation, and it is said that the MLS, Saudi Arabia, and Europe are all showing an interest in him. Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid are reportedly interested in the 34-year-old, according to Adrià Albets (via Barca Universal). They allegedly contacted the Spaniard’s agents to inquire.
Alba has additionally been presented with a staggering offer from the Saudi Pro League. He might follow Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo as the most well-known foreigner to land in the Middle East.
Alba would have the chance to reunite with Lionel Messi if Inter Miami, a member of the MLS, were to express interest in signing him. When his contract with PSG expires at the end of June, the Argentine legend will move to the DRV PNK Stadium.
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