Barcelona are reported to be serious interest to Bayern Munich striker Jamal Musiala, hoping to reunite the rising superstar with Hansi Flick in Catalonia.
Musiala was handed his Bayern debut by Flick as a 17-year-old in 2020 and later also played under the coach at international level with Germany.
Barcelona are hoping to return as a force in the transfer market once again, having returned to the 1:1 spending rules after years hampered by financial mismanagement.
Another winger or inside forward to complement Lamine Yamal is a key target and Musiala is described by sports as a “very popular” choice within the club's sporting hierarchy. He is even claimed to have 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 thought to be in talks over a new deal with the Bundesliga giants. However, it has previously been reported that he is seeking a no-holds barred release clause as part of this, potentially facilitating a future move.
A figure of €175m (£146m) has been quoted and is well short of the world record of €222m. It's a similar amount to that Barcelona paid for Philippe Coutinho, but should be seen as a long-term investment, given the potential for 21-year-old Musiala to be a key player for a decade or more.
Manchester City have been heavily linked with the German international for similar reasons as part of their rebuilding project, which has already begun in earnest.
sports adds that Barcelona will likely have no problem committing to a big transfer fee, thanks to a lucrative renewal of the club's partnership with Nike. But ensuring their wage bill remains affordable and under control would still be a concern.
In that regard, offloading top earners such as Frenkie de Jong still matters, although club officials believe the Dutchman intends to see out his contract to continue collecting a pay packet. Leaving as a free agent could give him a huge signing bonus from his next club.
Barcelona are threatening any player under contract until 2026 who does not renew with the prospect of being forced out next season.