Barcelona will reportedly switch their focus to Sevilla ace Steven N’Zonzi if they are unable to sign Adrien Rabiot from Paris Saint-Germain.
The Catalan giants have been busy so far this summer, with Clement Lenglet, Arthur and Malcom all securing moves to the Nou Camp to bolster Ernesto Valverde’s squad.
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A clear transfer strategy appears to be emerging at Barcelona given that all three of the players named above are in their early 20s, with an emphasis perhaps being placed on planning for the long-term future.
However, Barca could be set to depart from that with their next signing as Mundo Deportivo claim that N’Zonzi could emerge as a target as his €40m release clause in his Sevilla contract would arguably make him easier to acquire than negotiating with PSG over Rabiot who has been a priority.
The French international is of course coming off the back of winning the World Cup this summer, while the 29-year-old has been a fundamental part of Sevilla’s success in recent years having been a regular fixture in the line-up since joining the club in 2015.
In turn, they will arguably be desperate to keep him at the club, but should Barcelona express a serious interest, it remains to be seen whether or not they are able to fend off their La Liga rivals.
N’Zonzi would perhaps offer a bit more balance to Valverde’s midfield options. While the likes of Ivan Rakitic, Arthur and Philippe Coutinho are creative and like to get forward when possible, the Frenchman could add defensive solidity and physicality in midfield when necessary.
Although €40m would seem like a lot for a player set to turn 30 in December, it could be a sensible short-term addition to ensure Barca are capable of competing on multiple fronts next season.