Manchester City and Barcelona will both vie for the signature of Joshua Kimmich next summer as they look to bolster their midfield.
Barcelona, under coach Hansi Flick, is aiming to re-establish itself among Europe’s top clubs, knowing this will require more high-quality signings. According to the Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Kimmich is a top target for both clubs, with his exceptional physical and technical attributes making him highly coveted. His potential availability on a free transfer when his contract with Bayern Munich expires makes him an opportunity that cannot be ignored.
This is a rare chance to sign a world-class player without any transfer fee, and Manchester City, advised by Pep Guardiola, will pursue him aggressively. City hopes to pair him with Rodri Hernández once he recovers from his long-term knee injury, which will keep him out for the remainder of the season.
However, Barcelona is also determined to secure Kimmich’s services. They value his versatility and consistent high-level performances, and Hansi Flick, who knows Kimmich well and shares a close relationship with him, has personally recommended him. Still, financially, City holds a clear advantage, offering a superior salary package.
Sporting-wise, City can currently offer Kimmich a more stable and coherent project, while Barcelona is still undergoing a rebuilding phase and facing significant financial struggles. Despite these challenges, Barcelona president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco are committed to signing Kimmich and will do everything possible to convince him to join La Liga, rejecting offers from City or any other club.
A key figure in this pursuit will be Flick, who aims to smooth the path for Kimmich’s move to Barcelona, potentially finalizing the deal to ensure the 29-year-old joins the Catalan club.
