In a recent report, Sport revealed that Barcelona striker Martin Braithwaite is on the radar of Valencia this summer. It has been revealed that Valencia are eyeing a move to sign the Danish forward from the Catalan outfit in this off-season.
Braithwaite’s Growing Frustrations At Barcelona
Braithwaite had a frustrating campaign with Barca last season as he struggled to any kind of meaningful playing time in Spanish football. The 31-year-old made just four appearances for the Catalan club in the previous campaign, finding the back of the net twice and registering one assist across all competitions.
The veteran marksman missed a lot of games over the past 11 months due to a serious knee injury. His current contract at the Nou Camp is set to expire in the summer of 2024. Still, Barca would be wise to move him on as they simply do not have the luxury to offer him regular playing minutes next season.
Should Barcelona Boss Xavi Let Braithwaite Go This Summer?
Braithwaite is proficient at creating space for himself to get a few shots in at goal and can lead the line well on his own. He can be a decent finisher in the final third when he is playing regularly and with confidence on the field.
The Denmark international can even engineer some meaningful openings for his teammates in the final third. He can even make a few clever runs with the ball in the opponent’s half but has to find a way to improve his link-up play up top.
Hence, Braithwaite could still play an influential role at the highest level if the player can devise a move away from the Nou Camp this summer. The Catalan giants cannot offer him any real playing time in the coming seasons. At 31, Braithwaite needs to ensure regular first-team opportunities if he wants to make the most out of the remainder of his playing career.
Thus, it makes a lot of sense for Barca head coach Xavi to let him go and use the money generated from his potential sale to strengthen other areas of their match-day squad.
