Barcelona reportedly has serious interest in Bayern Munich forward Jamal Musiala, with hopes of reuniting the rising superstar with Hansi Flick in Catalonia.
Flick made his senior Bayern debut as a 17-year-old in 2020 and later also played under the coach at international level with Germany.
Barcelona are hoping to re-establish themselves as a force in the transfer market after returning to 1:1 spending rules after years of being hampered by financial mismanagement.
Another wing or inside forward to complement Lamine Yamal is a key target, and Musiala outlines it SPORT as a “very popular” choice within the club’s sports hierarchy. It is even claimed that he already had a soft spot for Barcelona because he watched Lionel Messi growing up.
Musiala has a contract with Bayern until 2026 and is understood to be in talks over a new contract with the Bundesliga giants. However, it was previously reported that he is seeking a no-holds-barred release clause as part of that, potentially making a future move easier.
A figure of €175m (£146m) was quoted, well short of the world record of €222m. It is a similar amount to what Barcelona paid for Philippe Coutinho, but he should be seen as a long-term investment, given the potential for the 21-year-old Musiala to be a key player for a decade or more.
Manchester City is very connected with the German national team player for similar reasons as part of his own reconstruction project, which has already begun in earnest.
SPORT adds that Barcelona would likely have no problem committing to a large transfer fee, thanks to the club’s lucrative renewal of its partnership with Nike. But making sure their wage bill remains affordable and under control would still be a concern.
In that regard, the release of high earners such as Frenkie de Jong remains relevant, although club officials believe the Dutchman intends to honor his contract in order to continue collecting his wage packet. Leaving as a free agent could also net him a huge signing bonus at his next club.
Barcelona are threatening any player with a contract until 2026 who does not extend it with the prospect of being forced to sit out next season.
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