Barcelona are keen on Florentino Luis as they view the €40 million-rated Benfica star as a viable replacement for Sergio Busquets.
According to Sport, Barcelona eye up a move for Florentino Luis ahead of the summer. Xavi Hernandez seeks a new holding midfielder to replace Sergio Busquets and may see the €40 million-rated Portuguese midfielder as a viable option.
Barcelona will expect a busy summer window, not only signing players but also culling their current lot to meet financial regulations. The Catalans are in the market to strengthen several key positions, but nothing more important than their midfield.
There’s a possible chance of Franck Kessie leaving, while Sergio Busquets has already announced his intention to leave. Xavi Hernandez outlined the need to replace the veteran midfielder, with several options considered as replacements.
Sofyan Amrabat was also an option, but the financial implications of concluding the deal may block any potential transfer. Previously, they had chased Martin Zubimendi for a long time, but the price tag on the Real Sociedad’s star has become a problem.
Florentino Luis has emerged on their shortlist as the latest target. The €40 million-rated Portuguese midfielder could depart Benfica, and a move to Barcelona may entice the 23-year-old star. Whether the Catalans can match up the financial requirements remains the question.
Luis has a €120 million release clause in his contract, but the report claims €40 million should prove enough to convince Benfica. Incidentally, Amrabat also has a similar price tag, but Barcelona may have the chance to structure a deal to their liking for Luis.
Moreover, the €40 million-rated Portuguese midfielder’s age profile makes him a long-term option. For that price, the Catalans might look to spend money on such a target, but Luis has plenty of interest from Premier League sides, including Arsenal.
Luis is not vastly experienced despite his undisputed stature at Benfica. He does have the attributes to become a great player, but for now, the major concern for Barcelona is to bring in the funds to make the transfer. In hindsight, he could become a viable replacement for Busquets and make the central position his own for years to come.
