RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesFormer Bayern Munich midfielder offers himself to Barcelona – report
According to journalist Matteo Moretto (h/t SPORT ), Leon Goretzka has offered himself to Barcelona after becoming a free agent following the expiry of his contract with Bayern Munich.
The German midfielder’s representatives have made contact with Barcelona’s sporting department in recent hours, indicating that Goretzka would be interested in joining Hansi Flick’s project following Frenkie de Jong’s long-term knee injury.
The Dutchman is expected to be sidelined for around four months after sustaining the injury during the World Cup. This has prompted the manager to request the club to reinforce the midfield if possible.
Flick knows Goretzka Well
This is not the first time Goretzka has been linked with Barcelona in recent months .
The 30-year-old midfielder worked under Flick at Bayern Munich between 2019 and 2021, making 64 appearances during the German coach’s tenure.
Goretzka worked with Flick at Bayern and with the German NT. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
Across all competitions, he contributed 15 goals and 18 assists and played an important role during Flick’s successful spell at the Allianz Arena.
That existing relationship has fuelled speculation that Goretzka could be a suitable option for Barcelona.
Barcelona not planning midfield reinforcement
Despite the player’s availability, Barcelona’s sporting department, led by Deco, are not currently considering a move for Goretzka.
The club have no plans to strengthen the midfield, believing the squad already has sufficient depth to cope with De Jong’s long-term absence following the rupture of the medial collateral ligament in his right knee.
Barcelona’s stance also means De Jong’s injury will not alter the club’s plans regarding Marc Casado either.
Barcelona not considering Goretzka move. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)
The Catalan side believe the academy graduate has reached the stage where he should seek regular first-team football elsewhere. Although the club will not force him to leave, they intend to help him find a new team.
An option on the table
Last season, Goretzka played more than 2300 minutes across 48 appearances for Bayern Munich.
Although he was not an undisputed starter under Vincent Kompany, he remained an important member of the squad as Bayern completed a domestic clean sweep in Germany and reached the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
For now, however, Barcelona’s position remains unchanged, with the club focused on their existing midfield options rather than pursuing the experienced German international.
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