In a recent report, Sport claimed that Barcelona want to snap up Borussia Dortmund full-back Thomas Meunier this summer. It has been mentioned that the Catalan giants are eyeing a move to land the Belgian right-back but Dortmund are reluctant to sell him during this summer transfer window.
Meunier’s Decent Form At Signal Iduna Park Last Season
The 30-year-old managed to put in a few impressive performances on the right side of Dortmund’s defence last season. Meunier scored two goals and picked up five assists in 26 matches for the German outfit in the previous campaign across all competitions.
The Belgian sensation was a reliable performer down the right flank based on his average of 1.7 tackles, 0.7 interceptions, 1.4 clearances, 1.1 shots, 0.9 key passes and 0.6 dribbles per game in the Bundesliga. He has even been accurate with his ball distribution after making 78% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
Meunier is under contract at Signal Iduna Park until the summer of 2024. Therefore, it won’t be easy for the Catalan club to sign him on a cut-price fee during this summer transfer period.
Should Barcelona Boss Xavi Step Up His Pursuit Of Meunier?
Meunier can be a solid presence on the defensive third of the pitch. He is a good tackler of the ball and can make a few timely interceptions when defending inside his half. Meunier is primarily a right-back but can even fill in as a right-sided wide player if his manager asks him to do so.
The Belgian talent doesn’t take too many chances when clearing the danger at the back and can make some driving runs with the ball down the right flank. He is good enough to chip in with some important goals and assists for his team in the final third.
Meunier ticks all the right boxes in terms of what Xavi demands from his full-backs. Hence, it is no surprise that Barca are showing interest in acquiring his services this summer. At 30, he might still have a few good years left in him to play at a high level.
The Belgian sensation will enhance the quality of Barcelona‘s backline and could serve as an upgrade over Sergino Dest at the Nou Camp. Furthermore, he could help Barca challenge for some major silverware in the coming seasons. Hence, Xavi should think about stepping up his pursuit to secure Meunier’s services before the end of this summer transfer window.
