It is reported that Barcelona is serious interest to Bayern Munich striker Jamal Musiala, hoping to reunite the rising superstar with Hansi Flick in Catalonia.
Flick made his Bayern debut at Musiala as a 17-year-old in 2020 and later also played for the coach at international level with Germany.
Barcelona are hoping to re-establish themselves as a force in the transfer market once again, having returned to 1:1 spending rules after years of financial mismanagement.
Another winger or inside forward to complement Lamine Yamal is a key target and Musiala is described by SPORT as a “very popular” option within the club’s sporting hierarchy. It is even claimed that he has a pre-existing soft spot for Barcelona due to watching Lionel Messi while growing up.
Musiala has a contract with Bayern until 2026 and is believed to be in talks over a new deal with the Bundesliga giants. However, he has previously been reported to be seeking a non-prohibitive release clause as part of this, which could facilitate a future move.
A figure of €175m (£146m) has been quoted and is well below the world record of €222m. It is an amount similar to what Barcelona paid for Philippe Coutinho, but it should be seen as a long-term investment, given the potential for Musiala, 21, to be a key player for a decade or more.
Manchester City have been heavily linked with the Germany international for similar reasons as part of his own rebuilding project, which has already begun in earnest.
SPORT adds that Barcelona would probably have no problem committing to a large transfer fee, thanks to a lucrative renewal of the club’s partnership with Nike. But making sure their wage bill remains affordable and under control would still be a concern.
In this regard, offloading big earners such as Frenkie de Jong still holds importance, although club officials believe the Dutchman intends to fulfill his contract to continue collecting a wage packet. Leaving as a free agent could also get him a big signing bonus from his next club.
Barcelona are threatening any player with a contract until 2026 who does not renew with the prospect of being forced to leave next season.
