How Barcelona's midfield might look if Xavi signs his dream players
The upcoming summer transfer window will be crucial for Barcelona as they look to return to title contention after a disappointing 2021/22 season.
Barça's financial situation has complicated matters, but president Joan Laporta is confident that the situation will be resolved once the sales of stakes in Barça Licensing & Merchandise and the TV rights are completed, subject to a vote by the assembly.
Barcelona has already identified their top targets for the upcoming transfer window, while also reportedly finalizing the signings of two free agents, Franck Kessie and Andreas Christensen.
Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha have been identified as the attacking reinforcements needed, while Kalidou Koulibaly has being eyed up to bolster the backline. At the same time, Xavi Hernandez is looking for two new midfielders.
Barcelona is attempting to offload Frenkie de Jong in order to generate funds, with the Dutchman set to be replaced by Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva. The 27-year-old has emerged as a top target, and while signing him will be difficult, Barça remain optimistic.
Ruben Neves, a Wolves mainstay, is another top midfield target for Barcelona. The Portuguese international has been identified as Sergio Busquets' long-term replacement, with Barcelona hoping to sign him this summer and gradually phase out their club captain.
Given the current economic crisis, signing both midfielders in the same window will be difficult for the Blaugrana. But, if they do manage to sign the two players, here's what they'll look like.
1. Pedri, Busquets, Silva
Despite missing many games last season, Pedri was named Barcelona's MVP for 2021/22. Such was the impact of the Spanish international in the matches in which he appeared. As a result, it goes without saying that when he is healthy and available, he will be a sure starter.
The same can be said for Busquets, who demonstrated in the second half of last season that he still has some fight left in him. The 33-year-old was one of Barça's most consistent performers, particularly after Xavi took over, and should continue to be the first-choice pivot.
Finally, if Bernardo Silva moves to Camp Nou, he will almost certainly take the second interior midfield spot. The 27-year-old Portugueseman has the requisite qualities on the ball to make a difference, while his intensity and industry off the ball make him an ideal fit into Xavi’s system.
2. Gavi, Neves, Kessie
If Barcelona signs their desired targets, Xavi will have enough depth in the squad to rotate his midfield without sacrificing quality.
Gavi, who has been in excellent form for both club and country and is close to signing a new contract, would step into the starting lineup if Pedri was rested or unavailable for some reason. The 17-year-old has already proven himself at this level and will only get better.
Kessie, who just finished a successful Serie A season with AC Milan, would be the other interior midfielder. The Ivorian is a capable ball carrier with ball-winning abilities, and his robust physical stature would add something unique to the team.
Finally, Neves would replace Busquets as the sole pivot in the 4-3-3. Should the Catalans sign him in the summer, the Portuguese international has the ability to make the position his own for years at Camp Nou.
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