While some around Catalonia might have been shocked over the summer as Hansi Flick arrived at the Nou Camp, Barcelona have enjoyed a sensational rise under the German tactician.
Making an immediate return to winning ways earlier in the week as they stormed their way to a 5-1 romp away at Mallorca, the Spanish giants are currently leading the chase at the top of the La Liga table.
Clearly enjoying life under the former Bayern Munich boss and embarking on a real Champions League romp, Barcelona will be desperate to strengthen their title charge when the January transfer market gets underway next month.
With the Catalonia hierarchy making it clear that money will be made available to Flick, it has been suggested that Barca have identified some of the Premier League’s biggest names.
Alexander Isak – Newcastle
While the record-breaking Erling Haaland might have stolen plenty of the Premier League’s striking headlines over the past two years, Alexander Isak has also made a sensational impact since arriving among England’s elite.
Arriving at St. James’ Park for a reported fee in the region of £60million back in the summer of 2022, the Swedish marksman has quickly cemented his spot as one of the Premier League’s leading number nines.
Although the former Real Sociedad ace might have dealt with some injury frustration this season, he has still registered five Premier League goals and is attracting plenty of heavyweight interest.
Alongside continued links to Arsenal, CaughtOffside reported on Tuesday night that Barcelona are closely monitoring Isak’s situation and have identified the Newcastle talisman as the dream long-term replacement for Robert Lewandoski.
With Isak and Newcastle yet to agree on a new deal at St. James’ Park and with the 25-year-old making it clear that he is desperate to play Champions League football, Barca are confident that they could claim what would be a real scoop.
Reece James – Chelsea
Hit yet with another injury setback last month and with Chelsea confirming that their captain will not feature until the New Year, it does feel that Reece James finds his career at a real crossroads.
Enduring what has been a public nightmare over recent times, the England international has managed just 654 minuets of football since officially being appointed as Chelsea’s full-time skipper.
Likewise, making just four appearances so far this season and with French full-back Malo Gutso continuing to impress in his extended absence, reports over the past week have suggested that James is looking to kickstart his career outside of England.
With Chelsea fans growing increasingly frustrated by James’ inability to find any kind of stability, it has been reported that Barcelona are a long-time admirer of the 16-cap international and would be willing to offer the Blues’ academy graduate a fresh start.
While James’ current deal at Stamford Bridge might still have over three years remaining, it has been suggested that Enzo Maresca’s men would be open to discussions.
Diogo Dalot – Manchester United
While Ruben Amorim might have only officially arrived at Old Trafford last month, the new Manchester United boss has been quick to single out Diogo Dalot for plenty of early praise.
However, with reports over the past month suggesting that Real Madrid are weighing up a potential swoop for the Portuguese defender, it appears that the reigning European champions face some stiff competition from their bitter rivals.
Featuring in all 14 of United’s Premier League appearances so far this season, the 25-year-old has gained a reputation for his versatility to play on either flank.
With Flick reportedly making a new right-back one of his key priorities ahead of the January transfer window, CaughtOffside reported earlier in the week that Barca have identified Dalot as a viable option.
Although Amorim might have stated that he sees Dalot key part of his early Old Trafford plans, Flick’s high-flying squad could be tempted to test United’s resolve next month.
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