Chelsea pair sounded out as Barcelona seek Raheem Sterling alternative
Barcelona seek reinforcements under Xavi
Barcelona have already recruited a new coach, in the form of Xavi, this season, but are looking to strengthen the playing squad too come January.
Seemingly top of their list is struggling Manchester City and England star Raheem Sterling, who has fallen out of favour under Pep Guardiola. The Englishman is reportedly keen on a potential loan move to Catalonia, but there are stumbling blocks.
Raheem Sterling has reportedly informed #ManCity that he wants to leave for Barcelona on loan in January, after not seeing himself in Pep Guardiola’s long-term plans.
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) November 20, 2021
There are severe question marks about whether Manchester City would be willing to let such a talented player leave on loan mid-season, in what is proving a very tricky defence of their Premier League title.
Meanwhile, it is unclear whether Barca could afford his mammoth wages, either, even for a period of six months.
Therefore, it is unsurprising to see other targets touted.
Time for Timo?
And now, as per ESPN, it is a pair of fellow Premier League strugglers, this time at Chelsea, that Barca are keeping an eye on.
Both Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner are allegedly being monitored to add some needed firepower to Xavi’s side. Of the two, Ziyech would seem the most likely to depart, having started just twice in the Premier League so far this season.
Hakim Ziyech and Timo Werner are alternatives to Raheem Sterling for Barcelona in January, sources have told @samuelmarsden and @moillorens 👀 pic.twitter.com/vIQmiQlzZS
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) November 23, 2021
Meanwhile, Werner could remain of use to Chelsea, although the return of Christian Pulisic from injury raises questions as to his status in the squad. Nevertheless, should Chelsea be looking to challenge on four fronts, loaning Werner seems madness.
Could you see Barca snapping up any of the three stars?
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