Sources revealed to ESPN on Wednesday that FC Barcelona intends to step up their search for a central midfielder to replace veteran Sergio Busquets. The club is determined to sign a replacement during the mid-season transfer window in January.
The 34-year-old Busquets, who will be out of contract at the end of the season, has received criticism due to his performances during Barca’s recent games against Inter Milan and Real Madrid.
Although Frenkie de Jong has expressed his intent to remain at Barcelona, the club is still on the lookout for suitable replacements should the Dutch international ultimately decide on a move to the Premier League.
At the top of the Blaugranes’ list for new signings this January are Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Ruben Neves. Although Zubimendi recently signed a new contract with Real Sociedad, his agreement does include a release clause of around €60 million.
While Neves has a contract with Wolves until 2024, the player’s agent, Jorge Mendes, is in regular contact with the Catalan club and has previously offered them the chance to sign the Portuguese playmaker. Other potential targets for Barcelona in the upcoming transfer window include Ajax’s Edson Alvarez, Chelsea’s Jorginho, and Benfica’s Enzo Fernandez.
