According to Marca, Barcelona now want to sign Liverpool target Ruben Neves as a replacement for Sergio Busquets.
What’s the story?
Well, the Spain international looks set to leave Barcelona at the end of the season after spending 17 years of his life at the Camp Nou.
Busquets – who joined La Masia in 2005 – could be heading to Major League Soccer in 2023 with his contract set to expire in Catalonia, and Barcelona’s plans to replace him may frustrate Jürgen Klopp.
It was said that Liverpool eyed a late move for Neves before the September 1st deadline, although any hopes of bringing the £15.8m man to Anfield could now be thwarted by Xavi.
Marca believe Barcelona have a good chance of signing the Wolves No.8 as he is represented by Jorge Mendes, who has a strong relationship with Joan Laporta – President of the Spanish giants.
Neves – who also attracted interest from Arsenal – will have just 12 months remaining on his contract in the summer of 2023.
By the sounds of it, the 25-year-old has one eye on an exit from Molineux, as it was said he wanted Wolves to include a release clause in any new contract he signs.
So far this season, Neves has played every minute for Wolves in the Premier League, while he has also taken the responsibility of being captain after Conor Coady joined Everton.
Liverpool could lose out to Barcelona
Few players in Europe would turn down a move to Anfield. Liverpool are one of the biggest clubs on the planet, and in Klopp, the Reds possess a coach who many would love to play for.
However, the opportunity to replace a legend in Busquets may be too tempting for Neves to reject.
Busquets – who has won 137 caps for Spain – is a bonafide icon in Catalonia, having made 685 appearances for Barcelona while winning eight La Liga titles and three Champions Leagues, among many other pieces of silverware.
It was also said that Neves himself wanted to play under Xavi after a summer phone call from the Spaniard.
Whatever happens, Liverpool need to make Neves a very attractive proposal if they are to convince him to ignore Barcelona.
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