Barcelona unlikely to make move for Bayern Munich star, set to trust La Masia to reinforce squad - Reports

Barcelona are unlikely to make a move for Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich in the summer, according to reports from Barca Universal. The Blaugrana are instead keen on trusting their famed youth academy - La Masia - to reinforce their squad for their next campaign.

Kimmich was Barcelona's top target in the summer transfer window earlier this year, but his failure to arrive at Camp Nou has forced them to look at their youth. Under Xavi Hernandez, a lot of youngsters made their debuts for Barca, but defensive midfield was a place where he seemed hesitant.

Current manager Hansi Flick appears to be much more inclined towards a homegrown solution in that position. Kimmich's contract comes to an end with Bayern Munich next summer, and he can agree to a pre-contract as soon as January 2025.

Talks have been going on between Kimmich and Bayern regarding an extension, but the latter's salary demands have baffled the Bavarian giants. It is also learnt that Bayern have asked Kimmich to lower his salary demands so that he can sign a long-term deal. The idea is to ask him to retire as a club legend.

The German currently earns between €15 to 20 million per season depending on variables. He will expect a bigger pay packet if he is to arrive in Barcelona next year. However, the figure seems too big for the Blaugrana to invest in, especially as they are also in the hunt for Kimmich's Bayern teammate Alphonso Davies.

Barcelona are preparing for a showdown with Bayern Munich on Wednesday

Barcelona will get a chance to view how Joshua Kimmich and Alphonso Davies do on Wednesday, October 23. They take on Bayern Munich in a UEFA Champions League clash at Camp Nou. Manager Hansi Flick, who was with Bayern previously, will want to make a mark in this game and win it for his current club.

Barcelona's week is only going to get hectic as they are slated for a showdown with arch-rivals Real Madrid on Saturday, October 26. This El Clasico will go a long way in deciding which club holds the upper hand in the La Liga title over the course of the season. Barca are on top at the moment with 27 points.