AC Milan’s €19 million new signing confirms Barcelona approach: “Xavi called me”

Speaking in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport (h/t Fabrizio Romano), AC Milan new signing Tijjani Reijnders has gone ahead and confirmed that Barcelona made an approach for him this summer but he had already agreed on a move to the Rossoneri.

Reijnders had emerged as a potential target for Barcelona in their search for a new defensive midfielder. Reports in Italy had even suggested that the La Liga champions had made an enquiry for the former AZ Alkmaar midfielder.

However, the move came too late as Reijnders had seemingly agreed to join AC Milan by then, as confirmed by the player himself.

“Xavi called me to discuss possible move to Barcelona,” he said. “It was impossible for me — no way as I already decided to join AC Milan.”

Reijnders signed for Milan in a deal worth €19 million plus add-ons. The 24-year-old had been a top performer for AZ prior to his move this summer so it does not come as a surprise to see Barcelona tried to rope him in.

But with Reijnders having decided to join Milan, Xavi’s phone call was not enough to sway him. Ultimately, he moved to Italy while Barcelona end up bringing Oriol Romeu to reinforce the pivot midfield position.

The former La Masia ace arrived for a deal worth around €4.5 million, signing a three-year contract with his boyhood club.

Given his past with Barcelona and his familiarity with the club’s style, his adaptation should not be difficult. And fans could see a first look at the 31-year-old when the Blaugrana take on Arsenal in a pre-season friendly in under 24 hours.