Five free agents Barcelona have on their radar this summer – a recap

In light of their financial constraints, FC Barcelona have been linked with several free agents as they look to not only cut costs but also rebuild their squad ahead of the upcoming season.

Here at Barça Universal, we will take a look at five free agents linked with a move to Camp Nou this summer.

Lionel Messi

It has been almost two years since Lionel Messi joined Paris Saint-Germain, but with his contract expiring at the end of the season, rumours of his potential return have intensified in recent weeks.

Messi, who is also been courted by Inter Miami, is reportedly keen on learning about the Barcelona project. Hence, the Catalans are in contention to bring their prodigal son back home this coming summer.

Messi’s return could reinvigorate Barcelona’s creative department while adding that x-factor in the attacking third. His partnership with Robert Lewandowski could make Barcelona one of the most feared attacking teams in Europe.

Inigo Martinez

The Basque defender has been a rock at the heart of Athletic Club’s defence for several years, and his aerial ability, leadership and positional sense make him an attractive target for Barcelona.

Martinez’s contract at Athletic Club expires at the end of the season. Unlike other players on this list, Barça have significant strides in their bid to sign the defender as well, with the player reportedly prepared to pen a three-year contract at Camp Nou.

Ilkay Gundogan

The German midfielder has been in impressive form for Manchester City, and his technical ability, vision and work rate make him an ideal fit for Barcelona’s style of play. He also bags loads of experience, which could come in handy in guiding the likes of Pedri and Gavi.

As far as Barcelona’s pursuit of Gundogan is concerned, the club have an excellent relationship with his uncle while the player himself has shown the desire to play for the Catalans in the coming season.

Marcus Thuram

Marcus Thuram might not be a prominent target for Barcelona right now. But he has been linked with a move to Camp Nou, having shown exceptional form at Borussia Monchengladbach this season.

With 15 goals in all competitions, Thuram is known for his eye for goalscoring opportunities, which is coupled with his pace and power. Barcelona, though, are set to face stiff competition from European giants in the race to sign the Frenchman this summer, with Bayern Munich among the clubs interested in his services.

Marco Asensio

Marco Asensio has struggled with injuries in recent seasons, but his technical ability, creativity and goalscoring threat make him a player of immense potential. He also offers vast experience at the highest level of football, with over 260 competitive appearances for Real Madrid.

Asensio’s current situation at Santiago Bernabeu is complicated. The player naturally wants a more prominent place in the side, but it is something the club cannot guarantee. This has led to a standoff, and it appears the Spanish international could be on his way out of the Bernabeu.

Barcelona are not among the frontrunners in the race to sign Asensio. But the club utilise the player’s relationship with Gavi and Pedri to formulate a plan and lure the Real Madrid star to Camp Nou this coming summer.