Swiss international Ricardo Rodriguez has come under consideration for a move to Barcelona as the Spanish side continue their search for a left-back.
Barcelona have been on the lookout for a left-back in this window and there is another name set to be added to their growing list of options. AC Milan’s Swiss left-back, Ricardo Rodriguez is the latest name to be linked with a move, who according to Sport, is considered by Barcelona as the ideal candidate to compete with Jordi Alba.
Barcelona have struggled to replace Lucas Digne, who provided good competition to Alba for the left-back slot. Since selling the Frenchman to Everton last summer, Barcelona have struggled to find another player who could provide them with an outlet, although they have stumbled upon some options that have failed this summer. For Barcelona, a left-back remains a priority.
Their search has taken them to many players in recent weeks. Real Betis full-back Junior Firpo was an interesting option until his price tag forced Barcelona to look elsewhere. Atletico Madrid’s Filipe Luis was heavily linked, but the Barcelona board believes the 33-year-old would substantially increase the team’s average age, and he also does not represent a long-term option.
Even Arsenal’s Sead Kolasinac was linked recently, as was Wolfsburg left-back Jerome Roussillon. All those names aside, Barcelona are no closer to signing a player of their desired profile. However, the name of Ricardo Rodriguez has come to the fore, and the Swiss international could be an interesting option considering all things, including style, age and potential transfer fee.
The AC Milan defender’s future at the San Siro is a subject of speculation as the Italian club are closing in on the signing of Real Madrid left-back Theo Hernandez. With the Frenchman’s move, Rodriguez could be considered surplus to requirements, and with a reasonable offer from clubs, Milan could sell the left-back.
The Swiss defender moved to Milan two seasons ago from Wolfsburg and has gone on to establish himself as a key player in the team. He has played 69 times in Serie A since his move but could leave the club this summer. At 26, Rodriguez has a long-term future with any club and this is one factor that is interesting Barcelona.
Milan reportedly want €18 million for the defender, although even €15 million is considered enough and this price is well within Barcelona’s budget. This could be another problem solver for the Catalans, who are bracing themselves to spend big to bring Neymar back from PSG. Naturally, they are looking for economical, but quality options to improve their team.
However, it remains to be seen if Rodriguez agrees to a move to Barcelona, knowing very well he would play second fiddle to Jordi Alba. While a move will undoubtedly favour Barcelona and AC Milan, it could go sideways for Rodriguez, who might find it difficult to get regular minutes.
