Barcelona interested in Nigeria international as alternative to top priorities in midfield | OneFootball

Barcelona looked to have reached an agreement on terms with Real Betis midfielder Guido Rodriguez, but the arrival of Hansi Flick, or perhaps more accurately the departure of Xavi Hernandez, seems to have diminished the chances of a deal being signed. It has opened up new options for the Blaugrana.

Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino was reported as one of their priorities this week, and joins Everton’s Amadou Onana and Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich amongst their upper echelon of midfield targets. MD also say that Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes is a preference for Deco, but is not within their means.

As per Sport, Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi is one of the cost-cutting alternatives that Sporting Director Deco is considering. Hansi Flick likes the Nigerian international, and would consider him, but not until there is clarity over their finances and ability to spend. Sporting Director Deco likes the physicality he would bring to the midfield.

Ndidi is not a priority for Barcelona, and Leicester have offered him a renewal as they return to the Premier League. Juventus are also credited with interest, and while Ndidi would be keen on a move to Barcelona, the 27-year-old may well look to accept other offers, rather than waiting for the Catalan side until late June or July, for an offer that may never come.

Just a few years ago, Ndidi was considered one of the best in the Premier League, but his stock has fallen in recent years. Spending this season in the Championship, he was a key part of Enzo Maresca’s side that won promotion with ease back to England’s top division.