Barcelona line up shock Gavi replacement

Stuart Telford

• Updated: 7 Jan 2024 14:29 GMT
• 3 min read

Barcelona are in the market for a Gavi replacement, and former Manchester United man Jesse Lingard has emerged as an unlikely candidate.

Gavi tore his ACL playing for Spain in November, ruling him out for the remainder of the campaign.

While his absence is a significant loss to the team, it does mean that Barca can accommodate another player with Gavi's salary no longer counting towards this season's costs.

Labouring with a €1.35 billion debt, which has at least been restructured, Barca are largely reduced to loans and free transfers, but Xavi teased a new arrival recently.

"Of course, after Gavi's injury it would be good to have a new signing in midfield," he said. "We'll see [if it's possible]. Maybe we can try an opportunity for the present rather than the future."

Barca need €2m for Lingard

According to Spanish daily Sport, a move for Lingard could suit all parties.

"Barcelona's financial problems are well documented, making new signings difficult," reports Alfredo Martinez. "But their appeal remains high and Jesse Lingard could be within reach.

"He wants to get back to his best and Barcelona could provide the perfect springboard. Available on a free, the total cost for him could be as little as €2 million for the rest of the season.

Lingard, who spent more than 20 years affiliated with Man Utd, was most recently playing for Nottingham Forest before being allowed to leave on a free last summer after struggling to recreate the form of old.

A 32-time England international, Lingard's highest market value was €31.8m four seasons ago. It currently sits at €2m.

Lingard isn't the only Man Utd outcast Barca have been linked with in recent weeks, with Mason Greenwood reportedly attracting their interest having impressed on loan at Getafe.