Barcelona look set to replace Xavi Hernandez next week, and German manager Hansi Flick is by all accounts the manager to come in at the Ciutat Esportiva. A deal in principle is believed to be in place with Flick.
Flick’s appointment would finally allow Barcelona to start planning in earnest for next season, with some degree of certainty, although understandably his appointment could alter some of their existing plans.
One area where Flick will not clash with Sporting Director Deco and the current strategy in place is in the pivot position. It seems Flick will give the go ahead to sign Real Betis midfielder Guido Rodriguez, who has also agreed terms with the Blaugrana. Matteo Moretto has also revealed to Football España that Flick’s appointment increases the chances of Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich joining the club.
Xavi was reportedly a fan of Kimmich, and had spoken to the Bayern star, with contract negotiations due to take place with the Bavarian giants. If they could not reach a deal, Bayern may well have looked to sell him this summer, which is where Barcelona could come into the equation, if they have the finances too.
Had Barcelona gone in a different direction, then Kimmich might have been less convinced by a move and vice versa. Yet as Moretto explains, Flick knows Kimmich well, and is a fan of his. He will remain on Barcelona’s shortlist as a result, and the 29-year-old will be well aware of what awaits him in Barcelona if Flick is confirmed as the new coach.
The post Hansi Flick appointment could aid Barcelona pursuit of midfielder this summer appeared first on Football España.
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