Barcelona lose out to Bayer Leverkusen as midfielder Aleix Garcia agrees to link up with Xabi Alonso in bargain transfer from Girona

The Catalan giants have been long-time admirers of the Spain international and tried to sign him in the January transfer window. However, Kicker reports that the midfielder has agreed personal terms with Bayer Leverkusen and is set to join the Bundesliga champions in a cut-price deal.

The report further claims that after getting verbal approval from the player, the German club will now negotiate with Girona. The Spanish side has reportedly set an exit clause in Garcia's contract at €15 million (£12m/$16m). Leverkusen are expected to seal the transfer soon.

Garcia, a former Manchester City youth player, had an important role to play in his club finishing third in La Liga and thereby securing a place in the Champions League group stage for next season. He appeared in 40 games across all competitions where he scored three goals and provided six assists.

After a trophyless season under Xavi, the Catalan side are all set to appoint former Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick as their next head coach. Despite their financial constraints, the German coach will aim to make some new signings in the summer window to rebuild the squad ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.