In a recent tweet, journalist Gerard Romero stated that Barcelona have identified Inter Milan defender Milan Skriniar as a target for this summer transfer window. It is understood that the Catalan giants are eyeing the Slovak centre-back as a backup if they fail to sign Jules Kounde from Sevilla this summer.
🚨Contamos en @JijantesFC
Opciones que baraja la dirección deportiva del Barça por si cae la opción Koundé
William Saliba, Milan Skriniar, Gvardiol, Iñigo Martínez y Roger Ibañez#mercato #central
— Gerard Romero (@gerardromero) July 20, 2022
Skriniar’s Impressive Run Of Form In Italian Football
Skriniar had a solid campaign at San Siro in the previous campaign when he put in several dominant displays for Inter on the defensive end of the field. The 27-year-old registered four goals in 48 matches for the Italian outfit last season in all competitions.
The Slovak talent was a rock at the back as he averaged 1.3 shots, 0.7 key passes and 2.5 clearances per 90 minutes in Serie A football. He even distributed possession well from the back, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 92.9% in the top tier of Italian football (stats via whoscored).
What Will Skriniar Add To Barcelona Boss Xavi’s Side?
Skriniar is a solid tackler of the ball and doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when required. He is usually quick to spot the danger and can make a few timely interceptions for his side inside his half.
The Slovak sensation can use his powerful 1.88m to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. He is even proficient at playing his way out from the back and knows what it takes to win trophies at the highest level.
Someone of Skriniar’s quality and skillset will no doubt be a fantastic acquisition for Barcelona this summer. He will add a lot of bite and steel to Xavi‘s defensive department at the Nou Camp. The Slovak centre-half could even go on to form a solid defensive partnership with Ronald Araujo at Barca in the future as long as he can make a smooth transition to life in Spain.
Skriniar is good enough to help the Catalan club challenge for top honours once again in the coming seasons. Thus, Xavi should focus on getting a deal done for him if he fails to land Kounde from Sevilla during this summer transfer period.
