Barcelona are reportedly plotting a summer swoop for Belgian international Thomas Meunier, after his impressive displays in the World Cup.
Reigning La Liga champions Barcelona are set to make a move for Paris Saint-Germain and Belgium right-back Thomas Meunier, as per a report from Spanish outlet Don Balon.
The 26-year-old joined Les Parisiens in the summer of 2016 and has established himself as one of the best in his position since. Last season, he made 34 appearances across all competitions, scoring 5 goals and setting up 7 more, as PSG went on to complete a domestic treble.
His performances in the recently concluded 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, seem to have further enhanced his reputation. Meunier was one of Belgium’s best players as they finished third in the tournament – their best ever result. He scored one goal and registered two assists in six appearances in the quadrennial event.
And this has reportedly sparked an interest in him from Barcelona. The right-back slot has been an issue for the Catalans since the departure of Dani Alves. They did sign Portuguese full-back Nelson Semedo last summer from Benfica. But, the new signing failed to make the desired impact.
As a result, the Blaugrana continued to use academy graduate midfielder Sergi Roberto at right-back over the course of the last season, as they went on to lift the La Liga title. However, Roberto is keen on returning to his natural midfield position and Barca too want to facilitate that by bringing in a new full-back.
The midfielder had been earmarked as the natural replacement for Barcelona legend Xavi. And, following the departure of Andres Iniesta and Paulinho this transfer window, along with the possibility of Andre Gomes also leaving, there will be a need for a new midfielder in the Catalans’ squad, heading into the next term.
And instead of spending on a new midfielder, Barcelona are interested in bringing in Meunier, moving Roberto back into his natural habitat of central midfield. It is being claimed that they have already made contact with the French champions to enquire about the full-back’s availability.
The 30-time capped Belgium international, who was also a target for Premier League heavyweights Manchester United, along with Real Madrid, still has two years left on his contract with PSG. However, he is reportedly open to leaving the French capital club this summer, although it remains to be seen if he is allowed to leave.
Reliable and solid in defence, purposeful and penetrative going forward, the 26-year-old is entering his peak years and will prove to be an excellent addition for Barcelona, should they be able to land him this summer.
