Barcelona are reportedly continuing to focus on three specific names for their midfield, with Adrien Rabiot, Steven N’Zonzi and Dani Parejo emerging as targets.
The Catalan giants have already been busy strengthening their squad this summer, with Arthur, Clement Lenglet and Malcom all being officially unveiled by the club.
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However, after losing both Andres Iniesta and Paulinho this summer, it’s questionable as to whether or not the reigning La Liga champions have done enough to replace them and set up their midfield for a successful campaign next season.
With that in mind, Marca claim that Barcelona are looking to add another signing before the deadline passes to bolster that area of the squad, with Rabiot, N’Zonzi and Parejo all specifically mentioned in the report.
While the Paris Saint-Germain star is arguably the best fit given his technical quality and passing ability to suit the style of play at the Nou Camp, it’s questioned as to whether the French giants will allow him to leave despite his contract having just one year left on it.
In turn, both N’Zonzi and Parejo are seemingly alternatives, although it’s added that they have €40m and €50m release clauses in their respective contracts which could complicate matters unless a lesser fee can be negotiated.
N’Zonzi would arguably be the smarter option between the two, as given Barcelona already have the silky attacking qualities of the likes of Ivan Rakitic, Sergio Busquets, Arthur and Philippe Coutinho to depend on, the French World Cup winner could help add a steeliness and solidity in the middle too.
Nevertheless, it remains to be seen as to whether or not Barca are willing to splash out on him, or if they continue to wait for positive developments in their pursuit of Rabiot.