Barcelona have ‘completely ruled out’ the signing of 29-year-old World Cup winner – report

Barcelona strengthened their midfield department during the summer transfer window with the double signing of Ilkay Gundogan and Oriol Romeu.

Yet, reports over the past month have suggested that the club could look for further reinforcements in the centre of the park, especially in the pivot position to add more cover.

As such, the name of Real Betis midfielder Guido Rodriguez has been touted as a target, with the 29-year-old in the final year of his contract at the Benito Villamarin.

Guido Rodriguez ruled out as target

But, now, according to Javi Miguel of AS, Barcelona have ‘completely ruled out’ a move for Guido Rodriguez at this point.

The Argentine international had been on Xavi and Barça’s radars since the summer as an option to reinforce the pivot midfield position.

Given that his contract expires in June 2024, the defensive midfielder could be signed for free next summer or for a cut-price fee in January.

That, coupled with his experience and proven pedigree in La Liga, made Rodriguez an enticing option for the Catalan heavyweights.

However, it appears that the option is no longer being considered, if the report from Javi Miguel is to go by.

What are Xavi’s options in the pivot position?

Oriol Romeu has been solid. (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)

Oriol Romeu has made a fine start to life as a Barcelona player and has produced some solid displays as the club’s first-choice pivot midfielder.

Beyond him, Xavi could also rely on Ilkay Gundogan and Frenkie de Jong as options for the position, although the latter is out with an injury until early November.

Sergi Roberto has also played in the role in the past while Xavi could always turn to the academy and push someone like Marc Casado, who enjoys the trust of the manager.

As such, it appears that there will be no move made for Guido Rodriguez at this point.

Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-have-completely-ruled-out-the-signing-of-29-year-old-world-cup-winner-report/

Author : Michel Durant

Publish date : 2023-09-25 09:17:35

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