Both Barcelona and Ronald Koeman are convinced that football has become more physical in recent years, so they believe that a physical 'beast' should be signed in midfield, Mundo Deportivo's highly reliable Fernando Polo reports.
The coach wants someone of Georginio Wijnaldum's profile to be signed after the 30-year-old chose PSG over Barca earlier this summer. This would imply a physical midfielder that is also great technically.
It's said that Koeman counts on Sergio Busquets, Pedri and Frenkie de Jong as the starters for the next season but wants to have more options available. Sergi Roberto could be used either as a pivot or central midfielder.
As for Riqui Puig, the staff values reportedly his skills but also highlight his lack of athleticism. Ilaix Moriba, meanwhile, is yet to sign an extension at the club so Koeman doesn't know whether he will be able to count on him.
The possible arrival of Saul in a swap deal for Antoine Griezmann won't change the Catalans' transfer plans in regards to a physical midfielder. The 26-year-old is seen more as an 'interesting opportunity' to lower the wage bill.
The Catalans hope to land a new midfielder either on the cheap or via a swap deal and are working tirelessly to make it happen. Due to their financial struggles, Blaugrana can't target someone like Paul Pogba, it's said.
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