Barcelona eye summer move for Joshua Kimmich as Xavi prioritises signing long-term Sergio Busquets successor

According to Mundo Deportivo, Xavi and Deco view the signing of a pivot as a priority and are looking for the long-term successor to the legendary Sergio Busquets. Kimmich is seen as the ideal option to replace Oriol Romeu, who has struggled since joining from Girona last summer. The German has been a mainstay in the Bayern side in recent years and boasts eight Bundesliga titles to his name.

Kimmich’s future in Bavaria has been the subject of debate for many months, mainly due to the fact his current deal expires at the end of next season. Still just 29, he could offer Barca many more years of top-quality football and would line up alongside international colleague Ilkay Gundogan in the heart of midfield.

Real Betis’ Guido Rodriguez is another enforcer being eyed as a potential transfer option by the Blaugrana. However, Kimmich is the one favoured by those in power at the Spanish club thanks to his combination of technical ability and physical prowess.

While he has excelled in midfield throughout his career, Kimmich has spent much of this season deployed at right-back by Thomas Tuchel - the Bayern boss opting for a Leon Gortezka and Konrad Laimer pairing in the middle of late.

But Kimmich often drifts into midfield from his position on the flank and has displayed his attacking talents with two goals and 10 assists in all competitions - including the crucial winner against Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-final second leg.

Kimmich could be one of many key Bayern players rested this weekend when they travel to fellow European qualifiers Stuttgart. With the Bundesliga title surrendered to Bayer Leverkusen, next Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final second leg against Real Madrid is the number one priority for Tuchel. The first meeting between the two giants finished 2-2, with Leroy Sane and Harry Kane each on the scoresheet at the Allianz Arena.