Barcelona may have multiple options to offload fringe defender Eric Garcia before the end of January transfer window in the middle of an approach to the ambitious Serie A team from Como.
Having started several La Liga games in September, Garcia has struggled to regain a place in Hansi Flick’s preferred line-up since recovering from an injury lay-off almost two months ago.
The versatile 24-year-old has already been the subject of interest from Girona, where he spent last season on loan, with reports of a willingness to pay up to €10m (£8.5m).
Girona has been unable to maintain the success of last season, facing the imminent elimination of the Champions League, but the Catalan club is still in the European fight for 2025/26.
Now competition comes from Italy for Garcia’s signature. Fabrizio Romano writes about an offer from Como worth 7 million euros, however Gianluca Di Marzio places the figure slightly higher at 10 million euros.
Como, backed by the richest ownership group in Italian football, have climbed the table in recent weeks thanks to improved results since Christmas, having initially struggled following promotion.
Cesc FÃ bregas’ side missed out on the summer signing of Raphael Varane earlier in the campaign, with the French veteran opting to retire after injury, but keep working behind the scenes as a member of the board. Garcia also has experience in English football, playing 35 times for Manchester City at the start of his senior career, and could be a shrewd addition if a deal is struck.
Barcelona have overcome the worst of their financial problems, but still have to reflect on the wage bill if they want to go ahead with the summer spending to rebuild the squad, with the Manchester United striker. Marcus Rashford among his expensive targets.
