Barcelona’s three-man shortlist to replace Wijnaldum

Carlo Garganese

Updated: 23 May 2023 08:47 CDT
3 min read

Barcelona are looking at three midfielders as a potential alternative to Gini Wijnaldum.

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The Blaugrana were rocked at the weekend by the news that Paris Saint-Germain had hijacked their move for the Liverpool midfielder at the last minute.

Wijnaldum had already agreed personal terms with Barcelona and was all set to move to Camp Nou on a free transfer this month.

However, PSG dived in at the final hour with a better financial package and Wijnaldum will now move to Paris after Barca refused to increase their salary offer.

Barca are now looking at alternatives and Marca claims there are three possible midfielders they could sign, all of whom are also available on a free transfer.

Hakan Calhanoglu

Maestro. #BizimÇocuklar 🇹🇷 pic.twitter.com/4TjFOPAb1t
— Milli Takımlar #BizimÇocuklar (@MilliTakimlar) June 3, 2021

The most enticing option is Hakan Calhanoglu of AC Milan. The Turkey international was one of the best players in Serie A in the 2020 calendar year and played a pivotal rule in taking the Rossoneri back into the Champions League.

However, contract talks to renew his deal that expires at the end of this month are still making little progress and an exit is now looking very possible.

Fernandinho

Nonetheless, nothing compares to the moments of magic, happiness, lessons learnt, achievements and many titles.

To All of you, Thank you!1️⃣2️⃣ pic.twitter.com/YaPrExnee1
— Fernandinho (@fernandinho) June 2, 2021

A second option is Manchester City veteran Fernandinho, who is leaving Pep Guardiola’s side on a Bosman.

The Brazilian is now 36 but he demonstrated during this title-winning campaign that he is still playing at a very high level. Indeed, Guardiola’s decision not to start him in the Champions League final with Chelsea has been heavily criticised as City lost 1-0.

However, whether or not it is worth signing Fernandinho given Barca already have a similar profile in Sergio Busquets is questionable.