Barcelona are considering Ruben Amorim to replace Xavi Hernandez, although the €30 million release clause could prove troublesome.
According to Catalan outfit CCMA, Barcelona are planning a move for Ruben Amorim to replace Xavi Hernandez. The 39-year-old in-demand manager has many clubs chasing his signature, although the project in Catalonia could attract him, although his €30 million release clause could potentially halt the move.
Xavi Hernandez did not hesitate in announcing his impending departure at the end of the season, which has put Barcelona in a difficult position. The reigning La Liga champions are looking for a new manager to replace the former Spanish international and have set their sights on Ruben Amorim.
The 39-year-old in-demand manager has plenty of other suitors chasing his signature, with Chelsea considering him as a replacement for Mauricio Pochettino. The Blues may have already sounded out a move before the Argentine’s appointment alongside Tottenham before they brought in Ange Postecoglou.
There were rumours of links to Liverpool, although his agent recently insisted no approaches were made to sign Amorim. Overall, the 39-year-old in-demand manager has sufficiently impressed many top clubs, including Real Madrid, who also have him on their list.
Sporting CP paid a €10 million fee when they snapped him from SC Braga and have their release clause in the 39-year-old’s contract worth around €30 million. Amorim has done wonders with the Portuguese club, especially with some young players like Ousmane Diomande and Goncalo Inacio.
Barcelona could present him with a humungous project keeping the youth at the forefront. Such a challenge would suit Amorim greatly, although his €30 million release clause might become a problem for the Catalans struggling financially.
Barcelona are mindful of their spending next summer and have considered alternatives like Marcelo Gallardo as Xavi’s replacement. There are also other names like Antonio Conte, as in the Italian’s case, the Catalans need not pay anything, considering he remains without a job.
However, considering the project and the club’s long-term vision, Amorim would vastly suit the Catalans. However, the finances involved in bringing the Portuguese could scupper any attempt from Barcelona, as other clubs with more resources could snap up Amorim in the coming window.
