Hoffenheim striker: The latest '9' linked to Barça comes from Germany

According to Sky Sports, the Catalunya club is monitoring 23-year-old Hoffenheim striker Fisnik Asllani.

Taking advantage of the fact that FC Barcelona will have to look for a number 9 for next summer, when Robert Lewandowski's contract expires and he is close to turning 38, many forwards have been linked to Barça in recent weeks, although, for now, as MD reported, one of the most popular and one that is seen as a market opportunity is Etta Eyong.

While Italian newspaper Tuttosport reported this Thursday that Barça's sporting director, Deco, had contacted Juventus striker Vlahovic's entourage, there is also talk from Germany about another number 9. In this case, Sky Sports reports that Barça is closely monitoring Fisnik Asllani, Hoffenheim's 23-year-old center forward. According to the same report, the German number 9, who is a naturalized Kosovar, has a written release clause to leave this summer, and Barça has been informed of this.

Asllani, who aims to be at a Champions League club next season, made no secret of his desire to wear the Blaugrana shirt a few days ago.

"FC Barcelona has always been my dream club; I've always wanted to play there," he told Sport Bild a few days ago. However, according to MD, Barça won't take any steps until they know his exact conditions and see how he develops, as at present they aren't certain he can reach the level the club demands.