Just weeks into assuming his role as Barcelona’s freshly minted manager, Hansi Flick has wasted no time in initiating the process of refining the squad ahead of the forthcoming season. A key focus of Flick’s agenda is to fortify the team’s defensive midfield, a position that the club has long been eager to bolster.
Initially, Barcelona had initially set their sights on acquiring Guido Rodriguez, but discussions have encountered a significant obstacle. Consequently, the club has now redirected its attention towards pursuing Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad.
Barcelona’s Proposed Deal for Merino
As per a recent report by Diario SPORT, Barcelona is strategizing to present Real Sociedad with a substantial offer of €25 million for Merino, complemented by an additional €5 million in potential performance-related bonuses. This proposed transaction thus carries a potential overall value of €30 million, a figure deemed reasonable in light of Merino’s demonstrated abilities and professional background.
Merino’s existing contract commitments with Real Sociedad are slated to extend until the summer of 2025, rendering this juncture an opportune window for Real Sociedad to leverage his market value.
Merino’s Envisaged Role within Barcelona’s Framework
Reportedly, Hansi Flick is contemplating a tactical revival at Barcelona, contemplating the reintroduction of a double-pivot system, where Merino would be partnered with Frenkie de Jong in the midfield. This strategic pivot seeks to furnish Barcelona with enhanced stability and equilibrium, thereby affording creative luminaries such as Pedri, Gavi, and Ilkay Gundogan greater latitude to ply their craft in advanced areas of the pitch.
Notwithstanding, uncertainties linger regarding the timing of Barcelona’s formal submission of their proposal and Real Sociedad’s disposition towards the offered terms. The resolution of these negotiations will hold considerable sway over Barcelona’s midfield blueprint for the forthcoming season.
