Ronald Koeman believes the ‘rapid’ Ousmane Dembele is going from strength to strength at Barcelona after the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal decided against meeting his £55 million price-tag, as he told Mundo Deportivo.
The fact that Barca were willing to sell the former Dortmund wonder-kid at a £40 million loss this summer highlights not only the desperate financial situation at the Camp Nou, but also how much Dembele’s reputation has suffered during three years in Catalonia.
While false dawns have been a common feature of his Barcelona career, the World Cup winner may finally be turning a corner.
Premier League giants Liverpool and Arsenal considered offering the winger a fresh start in England, according to Sport and AS, before Dembele’s £55 million price-tag had his suitors running for the hills.
Over the last few weeks, however, one of the most naturally talented forwards in world football is starting to show glimpses of the form that had Barcelona convinced that he was capable of stepping into Neymar’s shoes.
“Dembele has improved his physicality and fitness. There’s no denying his talent when he’s on form and fully fit. He has become better and better,” Koeman said after the 23-year-old followed up goals against Ferencvaros and Juventus with a stunning finish in Saturday’s 5-2 thumping of Real Betis.
“Dembele is rapid and he’s great in one-on-ones. He can also play on both sides. I’m very happy with the work he has been doing recently.”
“Ousmane needs to give his all and show his quality like he has done.”
Some reports had suggested that cash-strapped Barca would listen to offers for Dembele in January.
But, as Koeman himself points out, the one-time Rennes starlet suddenly has a key role to play with Ansu Fati facing four months on the sidelines.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
