Analysis: Evaluating the Impracticality of a Potential Move for Serge Gnabry in Barcelona’s Strategy under Xavi Hernandez

Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan recently provided an update on his future plans for the upcoming summer transfer window. Meanwhile, Barcelona is expected to have a busy window as they aim to strengthen their squad under the guidance of manager Xavi Hernandez.

Barcelona’s transfer plans are contingent on the approval of their viability plan by LaLiga, which they hope will happen in the coming days. While they prioritize free agent signings, there is also a possibility of pursuing players for whom transfer fees would be required. This includes the likes of Lionel Messi, Ilkay Gundogan, and Inigo Martinez, all of whom are potential free agents.

Serge Gnabry’s name has emerged in the transfer rumors, with Bayern Munich reportedly making him available for sale. Xavi is said to be an admirer of the German international winger, who has seen a decrease in playing time under Bayern’s new head coach, Thomas Tuchel. However, despite Xavi’s interest, Barcelona is not actively pursuing a move for Gnabry, a decision that appears to be wise for several reasons.

Firstly, Bayern Munich is likely to demand a significant transfer fee for Gnabry, making it an impractical move for financially-strained Barcelona. At 27 years old, such a substantial investment would not be prudent for the LaLiga champions.

Moreover, Gnabry primarily operates as a right winger, a position that Barcelona already boasts strong options in. Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha are established players in that position, with Ferran Torres also capable of filling the role, even though his future at the club remains uncertain.

Dembele and Raphinha have demonstrated their quality throughout the season, making the right wing an area of the squad that does not require immediate reinforcement. Barcelona’s focus should be on other positions that demand attention.

While Gnabry is undoubtedly a talented player, his recent struggles at Bayern Munich make him a target for numerous clubs across Europe. It is likely that other suitors would be better suited to acquiring his services than Barcelona.

If Barcelona decides to spend money during the summer transfer window, Vitor Roque, a young Brazilian striker, could be the ideal option. With the departure of Memphis Depay in January, a backup for Robert Lewandowski is needed, and Roque has the potential to become a regular starter in the coming seasons as Lewandowski’s career progresses.