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What's the story?
Barcelona's eternal chase for Thiago Alcantara has taken an encouraging turn, with the Spanish midfielder unhappy at Bayern Munich, and allegedly wants to leave the club, according to multiple reports in Spanish and British news outlets. During the negotiations for Rafinha's exit from the club, Thiago's father, Mazinho, has made it clear that Thiago is keen on a return to his former club, with Barcelona willing to pay a massive fee in the region of €91 million to tempt Bayern Munich into a move, especially now that the Bavarians are in pole position to sign Leon Goretzka as his replacement.
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Also Read: 5 reasons why Barcelona must make Thiago Alcantara their top transfer target
In case you didn't know...
Thiago Alcantara is a prodigal son for many Barcelona fans, with many cules viewing his sale to Bayern Munich for a paltry €18 million in 2013 as the most disastrous piece of transfer business by the club in the last few years. That situation was triggered by Thiago playing less than 60% of Barcelona’s games in 2012/13, which saw his release clause fall.
The heart of the matter
Thiago's reported 'unhappiness' at Bayern Munich is apparently due to the role Jupp Heynckes has asked him to play. Coupled with the fact that the player himself admitted in November that he would be glad to return, the situation seems ripe for Barcelona to take advantage of.
"Barcelona will always be my home, and not only because I love the club, but also the city. I will always look at them with love. You never know if I'll be back; because I'm very happy at Bayern, but football changes a lot. Anything can happen."
Thiago is currently on the sidelines following an injury suffered in November, and the Spanish midfielder has encouraged his father to open the lines of communication with Barcelona. The Blaugrana are naturally keen on the transfer but are fearful that if they do not wrap up a deal in January, Alcantara may be convinced to stay by Bayern in the summer.
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Author's Take:
Despite Barcelona's stellar start to the season, concerns remain over the state of their midfield, with Andres Iniesta on the wane. Thiago's return, as the heir apparent to Xavi and Iniesta, would be the icing on the cake and almost certainly guarantee Barcelona the La Liga title, and maybe even the UEFA Champions League trophy as well.
