Barcelona Targets Grimaldo and Pulisic Amid Squad Revamp

FC Barcelona is actively pursuing new signings, focusing on key positions including left back, right back, and wing. The club is particularly interested in Bayer Leverkusen’s Alejandro Grimaldo as they aim to enhance their defensive lineup. Reports from Mundo Deportivo highlight the urgency of these moves as Barcelona prepares for a significant squad transformation.

Barcelona’s left back situation has been under scrutiny, with Alejandro Balde, the 22-year-old academy product, displaying promise. However, the club is considering additional options as other defenders such as Gerard Martín and Jofre Torrents have yet to establish themselves as credible challengers for a starting position. Grimaldo, 28, is viewed as a potential solution to bolster the left side of the defense.

In addition to left back, Barcelona is exploring the possibility of acquiring a right back. They have expressed interest in several players, including Denzel Dumfries from Internazionale, João Cancelo of Al Hilal, and Daniel Muñoz from Crystal Palace. These players could provide much-needed competition for Barcelona’s current roster.

The situation of Christian Pulisic, an AC Milan forward, is also drawing attention. Pulisic is weighing his options regarding a contract renewal as he awaits confirmation of Milan’s qualification for the UEFA Champions League next season. His current contract runs until 2027, with an option for an additional year. The United States international has been linked with a return to the Premier League, particularly with Manchester United and Aston Villa showing interest.

Barcelona is not the only club making moves in the transfer market. Juventus has joined the race to sign Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, described by Tuttosport as an emerging talent in Spanish football. At 29 years old, Mendoza has attracted attention from several top clubs, with both Manchester City and Real Madrid having scouted him extensively.

Further rumors suggest that Roma is looking to secure a loan deal for Joshua Zirkzee from Manchester United. However, United is reportedly keen on including a clause for a permanent transfer valued at €30 million. This move could lead Roma to explore alternative options, including Arnaud Kalimuendo from Nottingham Forest or Jeremy Arevalo from Racing Santander.

As the transfer window approaches, clubs are also taking notice of young talent. Borussia Dortmund’s Nathaniel Brown, who made his senior debut for Germany in October, is reportedly on Manchester City’s shortlist to provide competition on the left side of defense. His performances in the Bundesliga have caught the eyes of several scouts.

In the wider transfer landscape, clubs are considering various strategies to strengthen their squads. Liverpool is eyeing Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth to fill the void left by Mohamed Salah, who will be participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. Meanwhile, Juventus finds itself in a difficult position with contract negotiations for Kenan Yildiz as multiple top clubs, including Real Madrid and Arsenal, show interest.

As the January transfer window approaches, clubs are preparing to make strategic moves that could redefine their squads for the remainder of the season. With Barcelona leading the charge for Grimaldo and Pulisic, the upcoming weeks promise to be pivotal in shaping the future of several clubs across Europe.