The upcoming summer transfer market is already shaping its main protagonists. With the current season reaching its most decisive phases, several elite clubs have begun to plan their roadmap for the next summer window. Pep Guardiola's Manchester City is no exception.
The Catalan coach is experiencing his worst moment at the helm of the English side and knows that his squad needs a revolution to return to the top of Europe. In this regard, one of the names generating the most expectation in Manchester City's offices is that of a star whose contract is ending and is set to become a free agent. However, Guardiola's intentions clash directly with Flick's Barça's plans and steal one of their most desired players.
The Most Desired in the Market
According to the latest information circulating around the Catalan club, Manchester City has burst into the race to sign Joshua Kimmich. The German midfielder's contract with Bayern Munich expires in June, and without a renewal on the horizon, he has become one of the great opportunities in the market. FC Barcelona was one of the teams closely following his situation, but Guardiola's emergence as a strong competitor has complicated the plans of the Catalan club.
The Catalan coach already managed Kimmich at Bayern Munich and sees the German midfielder as the ideal reinforcement to strengthen his squad. The recent elimination in the Champions League and the difficulty in maintaining consistency in the Premier League have shown that City needs more depth in the midfield. Therefore, Guardiola wants Kimmich to form a dream duo with Rodri, regain solidity and balance in the midfield, and thus return to the top of the continent.
Problems for Barça
Hansi Flick remains interested in having Joshua Kimmich in his ranks, but Deco and Laporta face two major problems: economic competition and financial fair play. Barça is at a disadvantage compared to Manchester City, considering that, economically, the English side has the ability to offer more attractive conditions. The Catalan club's coach believes Kimmich is key to his project, but Barça's economic reality may prevent his main wish from coming true.
Additionally, Barça prioritizes other positions in the market, such as signing a forward and a reliable center-back. Kimmich is a market opportunity, but his arrival will depend on several factors. Among these conditions is the departure of players like Frenkie de Jong or Andreas Christensen.