Bayern Munich midfielder Joshua Kimmich reportedly remains a transfer target for Barcelona, with the Catalan outfit determined to secure his signature next summer.
The 28-year-old was heavily linked with a move to the La Liga champions over the summer, with their head coach Xavi confirming that the Germany international was a target.
"He is a super top player, who understands the game in a fantastic way. If there is an open door, there will be a negotiation with Bayern," Xavi told Mundo Deportivo earlier this year.
Kimmich was again a vital player for the German club during the 2022-23 campaign, featuring on 47 occasions in all competitions, scoring seven times and contributing 11 assists in the process.
Meanwhile, the defensive midfielder has five assists in 15 appearances for Bayern at the start of this season.
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Barcelona were ultimately unable to sign Kimmich over the summer due to their financial situation, but according to Fichajes, the German remains a leading target for the club.
The report claims that the midfielder is being considered for next summer, as he is expected to push to leave Allianz Arena in search of a fresh challenge.
Kimmich only has a contract with Bayern until June 2025, meaning that the club are not in a strong position when it comes to his future, which could lead to his exit next year.
Barcelona are unlikely to be in a position to pay a huge fee for Kimmich due to their financial situation, with permanent deals for on-loan duo Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix potentially being pursued.
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The German arrived at Allianz Arena from Stuttgart in July 2015, and he has turned out for the club on 362 occasions, scoring 40 goals and registering 99 assists in the process.
Barcelona brought in Oriol Romeu over the summer to boost their midfield options following the departure of the inspirational Sergio Busquets.
Frenkie de Jong is now set to stay and sign a new deal despite speculation surrounding his future, while Fermin Lopez, Pedri, Gavi and Ilkay Gundogan are among their other options in midfield.
However, Xavi is expected to push for another arrival in that area of the field at the end of the season.
Any deal is likely to depend on Bayern's valuation, though, as the midfielder is regarded as one of the best in the world in his position.
Matt Law
