Wijnaldum reveals why he chose PSG over Barcelona

Georginio Wijnaldum was someone that Barcelona were hoping to sign for the 2021/22 season, only for the Dutchman to turn down the chance to work with Ronald Koeman again in favour of a move to Paris Saint-Germain.

The ex-Liverpool midfielder was available on a free transfer - something that Barcelona have taken advantage of already this summer - and was seen as an ideal target for the Catalans.

"It was difficult," Wijnaldum said of his decision.

"I was negotiating with Barcelona for four weeks.

"PSG were a little quicker and the project they had appealed to me.

"It was a tough decision because Barcelona were very interested in me.

"They're two big clubs and you'd love to play for both but, in the end, I chose PSG. It was a relief to be able to make the decision before the tournament."

Express request

The 30-year-old was someone that Koeman had requested the signing of, but PSG interfered and twisted his arm, taking him to the French capital on a contract that runs until 2024.