- Barcelona linked with move for soon-to-be free agent Leon Goretzka
- Signing would reportedly make Lionel Messi happy over strengthening of squad
- German ace is considered to be replacement for Iniesta or even Xavi in Barca midfield
- READ MORE: €100million star wants rival deal done ASAP despite previously agreeing Manchester United transfer
Barcelona haven’t entirely convinced this season despite their standing in La Liga and in Europe, and reports claim a key new signing could be made.
The Catalan giants have performed well under Ernesto Valverde, but they haven’t been at their previous best with some disappointing results along the way including draws with Valencia and Celta Vigo.
However, they remain unbeaten in the two major competitions, winning 12 of their 15 league games so far this season, and so from a results point of view, there’s little to moan about.
According to Diario Gol, as re-reported by The Express, Ernesto Valverde and the hierarchy want to wrap up a deal to sign Schalke’s Leon Goretzka, in a move that is said to likely keep Lionel Messi happy as he wants to see Barca remain competitive in the long-term too.
The 22-year-old is a top talent having proven his quality for club and country at such a young age, and it’s easy to see why Barcelona would want to sign him given that he has the characteristics and style of play required to be a success at the Nou Camp.
Further, he’ll be available on a free transfer at the end of the season with his contract set to expire with the Bundesliga outfit making him an even more attracting potential signing.
He could be a pivotal signing with Andres Iniesta not getting any younger, as the Spanish icon is specifically mentioned in the report with Goretzka labelled as the ‘new Iniesta’, or perhaps even a long-term replacement for former captain Xavi.
Iniesta will turn 34 next year and so a successor in midfield will be needed sooner rather than later to string things together and be an attacking threat from deep. The best strategy would surely be to bring one in ready to step in as he gradually suffers from a decline rather than panic when he hangs up his boots and scramble for a replacement.