5 midfielders who can replace Sergio Busquets at Barcelona

#3 Aurelien Tchouameni | Monaco

Spain v France – UEFA Nations League 2021 Final

Aurelien Tchouameni is right up there as one of Europe's most promising youngsters.

Tchouameni plays for Monaco in Ligue 1 and has spent his entire career in France. Making his debut with Bordeaux in 2018, he was signed by Monaco in 2020 and has developed into a fantastic footballer.

He is a defensive midfielder by trade and has been a regular for Monaco ever since he joined. His domestic performances have impressed several suitors and have also earned him a call-up to the French national side.

Carrying a hefty price tag of €100 million, Tchouameni will certainly be in high demand come the summer transfer window.

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#2 Nico Gonzalez | FC Barcelona

FC Barcelona v SSC Napoli: Knockout Round Play-Off Leg One - UEFA Europa League

Nico Gonzalez has emerged as yet another one of Barcelona's many young talents.

Gonzalez graduated from La Masia and only made his debut for the club last year. He has displayed many of the attributes that are familiar to graduates of La Masia and looks extremely promising in Xavi's Barcelona setup.

Carrying a similar frame to Sergio Busquets, Gonzalez has displayed excellent positioning and movement from his defensive midfield role. His ball retention abilities are outstanding and he has been tipped to be a natural replacement for Sergio Busquets by many.

Gonzalez has made 23 league appearances this season and certainly has the talent to become Busquets' heir. He can benefit greatly under the tutelage of Xavi and could develop into an excellent replacement for Busquets over time.

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#1 Franck Kessie | AC Milan

Parma Calcio v AC Milan - Serie A

Franck Kessie has been heavily linked with Barcelona over the past couple of transfer windows.

The Ivorian has been with AC Milan since 2019 and is certainly thriving in Italy. He initially made his name with Atalanta, with whom he spent two years before moving to Milan on loan. Kessie was extremely impressive as AC Milan made his loan move permanent in 2019.

Kessie is incredibly versatile in midfield and can contribute greatly in both offense and defense. He has been deployed as a playmaker in the past and is equally capable of playing as a defensive midfielder.

Kessie's contract negotiations with Milan have reportedly reached a stalemate and Barcelona are keen to capitalize on the player's situation. The club have shown great interest in Kessie and the move looks increasingly close.