In a recent print edition, Sport has revealed that Barcelona are open to entertaining offers for Ousmane Dembele from January. It is understood that the Catalans are hoping to cash in on the French wide player this winter despite the recent injuries to Philippe Coutinho and Ansu Fati (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness).
Dembele’s Impressive Numbers In Europe This Season
Ronald Koeman’s frontline is currently stretched thin as it is, so it could be a nightmare scenario for Barca if they decide to sanction Dembele’s departure before buying an ideal replacement for him when the transfer window reopens at the start of next year.
The 23-year-old has caught the eye with his performances at the Nou Camp this season, so he would now be expected to step up and prove his worth as a valuable member of Koeman’s starting XI. Dembele has found the back of the net on three occasions and secured one assist in eight appearances for the Spanish outfit this term in multiple competitions.
The Vernon-born speedster has produced a couple of impressive displays in Europe and is averaging 0.7 tackles, 2.3 shots and 3.3 dribbles per game in the UEFA Champions League group stages so far. He has also been tidy with his ball-distribution as he has made 83.3% of his attempted passes in European football (stats via whoscored).
What Does The French Wing Wizard Bring To The Table?
What makes Dembele such a constant menace for the opposition defenders is his ability to run with the ball at full sprint out on the wide areas. He is proficient at testing the opponent’s keeper but is in dire need to be more clinical in the final third.
The 21-time French international can deliver some dangerous crosses into the opposition penalty box and also packs a lot of power with his shot attempts. However, frequent injuries have hampered his development at the Nou Camp, so it’s difficult to see a way back for him if he fails to show a clean bill of health over the next few years.
Barca Ready To Entertain Offers For Dembele From January: Good Decision By Koeman?
Dembele’s current deal expires in the summer of 2022, so Barca would be wise to cash in on him in January before he enters the final year of his contract. Ronald Koeman can use the funds generated from his potential sale to bring in a suitable replacement amidst the financial constraints brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.
At 23, the French attacker still has plenty of time to rediscover himself at the highest level, so maybe parting ways with the Catalans this winter could benefit him in the long-run. However, at the moment, Koeman has to find a way to get the best out of Dembele so that Barca can stay in the race for the league title in Spain.
