Manchester City Keen On Signing Barcelona Superstar: What Should Koeman Do?

Recent reports from Spanish media outlet El Nacional claim that Manchester City are keen on signing Barcelona midfielder Sergio Busquets in the upcoming transfer window as Pep Guardiola looks set to add to his options in the middle of the park.

Fed up with Ronald Koeman’s tactical approach, alleged leaks, and lowering of salary, the Spaniard has changed his mind about retiring at Barcelona. Busquets would only leave the Catalans for a team that suits his style of play, and Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City are the best fit in this case.

The report further states that Manchester City are willing to offer the Barca midfielder a two-year deal, followed by another two-year deal at the English club’s sister outfit New York City FC as the player is believed to be keen on ending his career in the United States.

‘Now, however, his situation has taken a turn, to the point that Busquets is seriously considering leaving the Camp Nou next summer, to reunite with the coach who gave him his first chance, Pep Guardiola .’ – The translated version of the report stated.

Busquets’ present deal at the Camp Nou runs until 2023, but just like many of his teammates, he had to take a pay cut to help his side’s financial issues.

Sergio Busquets’ Incredible Career In Spain

With 15 goals and 41 assists in 638 appearances across all competitions, Busquets has had a stellar career with the Catalan giants since his promotion to the first team in 2008. Having won more than 32 titles at the club level over the course of his career, it’d be an understatement to say that he has been one of the greatest players to have ever played for the Spanish club.

Even this season, he has managed to put up some awe-inspiring numbers on the board – averaging 1.9 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, 4.7 long balls and one clearance per 90 minutes in La Liga.

However, in recent times, things haven’t clicked for the 32-year-old midfielder under Ronald Koeman as Barca find themselves struggling in the ninth position with just 12 points in seven matches.

What Should Koeman Do?

Barcelona are right now going through an extremely rough patch and even after the disastrous results the board has shown their faith in Koeman. The transfer policy of the club has been questionable, to say the least with players like Suarez and Griezmann being released.

Selling out the veteran Spaniard cannot be the answer at all since the club is lacking quality midfielders and leadership in midfield which Busquets can offer. Aged 33, the 131-times Spain international is still pretty capable of running the show from the middle of the park and the gaffer should look to utilise his quality for as long as he is available.

(Stats from WhoScored).