Barcelona’s desire to fortify their midfield ranks, especially the defensive midfield role, is an open secret by now.
While Guido Rodriguez is expected to arrive as a free agent this summer, the club is still exploring additional options to field in the pivot position.
And the name of Valencia’s Javi Guerra has been gaining traction lately, a 21-year-old technician plying his trade in midfield.
Guerra’s price will not exceed €25 million
Now, according to AS, Barcelona’s interest in the Spanish midfielder is legitimate and the Catalans have transferred their intentions to Valencia.
Despite possessing a substantial €100 million release clause and a contract that expires in 2027, the report adds that Guerra’s price tag will not exceed €25 million.
Given that Barcelona are suffering from economic woes, they are not in the best position to splash big this summer.
As such, Guerra acts as a low-cost alternative to some big names such as Martin Zubimendi and Joshua Kimmich, who presently remain unattainable due to their hefty price tags.
Guerra’s playstyle
The young Spaniard is known for his ability as a deep-lying playmaker who offers exceptional poise under pressure.
Moreover, Guerra’s ball-carrying abilities are particularly held in high regard. Although Barcelona have no shortage of excellent carriers, their persistent injury issues suggest that having more options in midfield would be beneficial.
The 21-year-old Spaniard can play as an interior midfielder or a No. 6 and has already contributed four goals and an assist in La Liga this season.
With promising fundamentals on the ball, he also contrasts Guido Rodriguez’s profile, who is more of a traditional defensive midfielder focused on breaking up play and providing stability in front of the backline.