Napoli’s €30 million-rated pivot offers himself to Barcelona
Barcelona’s activity in the upcoming summer transfer window will be largely dictated by the financial situation. In an ideal world, however, there are three positions the Catalans prioritise.
Apart from the full-back and left-wing positions, the defensive midfielder is Barcelona’s single greatest priority.
After all, Oriol Romeu’s time at Barcelona can now be deemed a failure with Andreas Christensen currently covering for the Spaniard.
A target in Italy
According to reports from Fichajes, Napoli midfield star Stanislav Lobotka has communicated his desire to represent Barcelona through his agent, Branislav Jarusek.
His entourage has opened contacts with Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, regarding a potential move in the summer, but it remains complicated considering that his contract in Naples runs until 2027.
The 29-year-old has been one of the few immovable pieces of the jeopardised Napoli side that has struggled all season.
He has made 29 league appearances so far this season, averaging over six defensive actions and six ball recoveries per game.
While Lobotka would be a good fit for Barcelona in terms of profile, the Catalans’ financial situation and the player’s lengthy contract are the potential hurdles to his signing.
He now adds up to a long list of potential pivot targets including Amadou Onana, Joshua Kimmich, Mats Wieffer and Aleix Garcia.
Xavi’s praise
Lobotka was recently seen in action against Barcelona over two legs when the Catalans took on Napoli in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League.
He was highly impressive in the first leg, but he could not live up to the same standard in the reverse fixture.
Speaking to the media ahead of Barcelona’s second-leg clash against the Italians, Xavi praised Lobotka in particular as a player he admired.
“I would say Lobotka. I like him as a playmaker, he doesn’t lose any balls. I would like to see him at a club like Barça. He makes a lot of difference for Napoli.”
The Barcelona legend’s direct praise, needless to say, has been a crucial factor in initiating conversations between the midfielder’s entourage and the club. It remains to be seen if it can come to fruition.
