Barcelona target Joshua Kimmich as replacement for Sergio Busquets

Barcelona has been linked with a move for German midfielder, Joshua Kimmich, who wants to leave Bayern Munich this summer.

Mundo Deportivo reported that the Spanish giants are planning reinforcements for their first team squad, which on Sunday, May 14, sealed its maiden La Liga title in four years through a 4-2 away win against rivals Espanyol.

Their captain Sergio Busquets had also announced that he would be leaving at the end of the season after almost 15 years in the starting lineup, leaving a gaping hole in the midfield.

However, it might not be a straightforward deal as Barcelona has soured their relationship with Bayern with Robert Lewandowski’s transfer, and the Bavarian giants might force them to pay a premium for the disgruntled midfielder, who is valued at around €45m.

Manchester City has also been linked with the German midfielder as Ilkay Gundogan prepares to leave the club at the end of this season.

Kimmich is not only one of the world’s best midfielders, but he can also play at the right back where Barcelona coach, Xavi Hernandez badly needs cover.

Central defender Jules Kounde has been filling in there this season but is expected to occupy his usual area of the pitch soon and especially if Andreas Christensen is moved on.

Mundo Deportivo complimented Kimmich for being “very reliable” because of his technical and physical qualities as a “very tactically intelligent footballer”.