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Barcelona secured a 2-0 win over Almeria on Thursday, May 16, in La Liga. Fermin Lopez scored a brace to help his team solidify their position in second place in the league table with two games remaining.
Meanwhile, the Blaugrana are planning to move for Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich this summer. Elsewhere, Barca boss Xavi has clarified recent rumours about his future.
On that note, here's a look at the key Barcelona transfer stories as on May 17, 2024:
Barcelona want Joshua Kimmich
Barcelona are eager to secure the services of Joshua Kimmich this summer, according to SPORT.
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Xavi is determined to upgrade his squad after a disappointing season. The Blaugrana are set to end the campaign without a trophy, while bitter rivals Real Madrid have won the league and are in the Champions League final. The La Liga giants are looking to make changes to get the team back on track, and Kimmich has emerged as an option.
The German midfielder's contract with Bayern Munich expires at the end of next season, but he hasn't signed a new deal yet. Kimmich could be available for a reduced fee this year, and Barcelona are interested. The 29-year-old could be the perfect replacement for the legendary Sergio Busquets, and Xavi is apparently pushing for the move.
Xavi clarifies his future
Xavi has said that he remains focused on his targets for the upcoming season despite recent rumours about his future.
He sparked an outrage earlier this week with his comments on the club's financial situation and the need for reinforcements. Reports immediately surfaced that Barcelona president Joan Laporta and other members of the board were least impressed with his words and were even considering sacking the Spanish manager.
However, after Thursday's win, Xavi said that all is well behind the scenes at the Camp Nou.
“The club has not told me anything after my words yesterday. The relationship has not changed. Yesterday I only said what I think. I’m calm regarding my future next season, and that’s what I told Deco and Laporta,” said Xavi.
He continued:
“I understand the noise. The environment around the club is always like that. But no, I’m calm and ready to start next season. My whole staff are very excited. We want to play the Super Cup, we want to compete for titles next season. We want to win titles again.”
Xavi's contract with the La Liga giants expires in 2025.
Former player opens up on Robert Lewandowski
Barcelona legend Rivaldo has hinted that the club should seek a successor for Robert Lewandowski.
The Polish striker is finishing the season on a strong note and has 24 goals and nine assists in 47 outings across competitions. However, Lewandowski will turn 36 later this year and is linked with an exit from the Camp Nou ahead of the summer.
Speaking to SPORT, Rivaldo pointed out that the player's age could tempt the Blaugrana to consider replacements.
“Lewandowski is a great striker, but he is old and this is an important factor.
"In my period, when you reached the age of 30, the club would start thinking about selling you. Even though he only spent 2 seasons at Barcelona, fans want a stronger team than they were 2 seasons ago,” said Rivaldo.
Lewandowski's contract with the La Liga giants runs till 2026, and he's one of the highest earners at the club.
