Barcelona have identified Callum Hudson-Odoi, Christian Pulisic and Hakim Ziyech as potential loan targets for the January transfer window, Sport claims.
The Blaugrana recently appointed Xavi Hernandez as their new head coach. They have already confirmed their first signing under him with the return of Dani Alves.
They are now keen on bolstering the attack but can’t afford to spend more than €10 million amid restrictions imposed by La Liga due to their hefty wage bill.
Raheem Sterling has been heavily linked with them in recent weeks, but a deal appears unlikely with Manchester City only willing to offload him permanently.
They now appear to have turned their attention to the Blues, and are keen on signing one of Hudson-Odoi, Pulisic or Ziyech on a temporary deal this winter.
Our view:
Hudson-Odoi has recently benefited from injuries to Romelu Lukaku and Timo Werner. He has taken his chances with both hands with multiple goal contributions.
Thomas Tuchel personally blocked his loan exit over the summer, and it appears unlikely that the German will entertain the attacker’s departure in January.
However, the same can’t be said for Pulisic or Ziyech. The latter has been a regular on the bench despite the ongoing injury crisis at the west London club.
Ross Barkley was handed a surprise start ahead of him against Burnley last weekend. It is quite clear that he is no longer an assured starter for the league games.
Borussia Dortmund have recently been linked with a loan move for him. The Blaugrana will need to move fast to sign him if the Blues are open to his mid-season exit.
Pulisic has not started for the Blues since the opening weekend due to a nagging ankle injury. He recently made his comeback after an extended absence.
The United States international has been plagued by injuries over the past few years, and he could be handled with caution by Tuchel over the next few months.
Unlike Ziyech, he is not desperate to head for the exit door. If he is available this winter, the Blaugrana may be better off ignoring him due to fitness concerns.
They have dealt with Ousmane Dembele’s injuries over the past four years and should avoid bringing in Pulisic, who has the tendency of picking up niggles.
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