Gavi replacement: Romano drops major update on Barcelona's transfer plans
Tom Weber
- Updated: 25 Nov 2023 10:24 GMT
- 3 min read
Fabrizio Romano has urged people to pump the breaks regarding talk of Barcelona's search for a Gavi replacement.
The Blaugrana wonderkid was severely injured in what was ultimately a meaningless fixture while playing for Spain and will certainly miss Euro 2024, with reports suggesting that the national team won't call him up again until 2025.
Barcelona are, naturally, furious about the whole incident and speculation around them signing a replacement in January began abounding as soon as the 19-year-old limped off the pitch. Bringing players in in January won't be easy for the cash-strapped Catalans, especially since the priority remains making the arrival of striker Vitor Roque possible.
Nevertheless, the Blaugrana have been linked with a host of potential midfield options. Even the name of Liverpool's Thiago Alcantara has been floated as an option given that the veteran could be affordable as he is out of contract in the summer and because he came through the club's youth system.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, however, insists that it is too early for Barcelona to be plotting January moves for a midfielder.
What did Romano say?
Speaking to CaughtOffside, the Italian said: "There’s nothing to announce of course regarding a replacement for Gavi despite the rumours. It’s November guys, and Gavi only got injured a few days ago."
"It would be mad to already have a replacement in mind, and I can confirm that nothing is happening now. Barça will take their time and discuss things internally, they’re not in a hurry and their priority is still to register Vitor Roque."
It is entirely possible that, instead of signing a replacement, head coach Xavi will once again look for an in-house solution. Fermin Lopez already came into the team when Gavi was suspended earlier in the season and impressed in the Champions League.
