Barcelona have made it clear that a player that can operate on the left flank is their priority this summer, despite having used Raphinha there to good effect last season. So far, their efforts have been in vain.
Nico Williams was initially highlighted as their top choice in the market, but with Williams likely staying at Athletic Club, they have turned their attentions to Dani Olmo. Negotiations with RB Leipzig are yet to come to fruition though.
According to Sport, Barcelona have been offered Juventus winger Federico Chiesa. There were contacts between the Catalan side and his agents in spring, and they share good relations, with Marcos Alonso formerly a client in common. However it looks as if Barcelona will not be moving for Chiesa.
The Catalan daily say that Chiesa already has offers on the table from Lazio, Napoli and Inter, while Manchester United are also credited with interest. Juventus would be looking for a fee for Chiesa, who has a year left on his deal, but not more than €20m – he will have a high salary though.
It should be noted that Matteo Moretto has told The Daily Briefing that as recently as last week that Chiesa was still searching for a home, and there were no offers on the table currently. The 26-year-old is undoubtedly talented, but has had some terrible luck with injuries. From Barcelona’s perspective, Olmo or Williams could be considered an upgrade on Raphinha, but Chiesa would perhaps face more of a battle for his spot.