Barcelona renew interest in Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat

Barcelona have reignited their interest in Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat amid plans to reinforce their squad this summer, according to AS.

The Blaugranas are looking to sign a new defensive midfielder amid uncertainty over the long-term future of stalwart Sergio Busquets.

The 34-year-old will become a free agent when his current contract runs out at the end of the season, and there are currently no talks for an extended deal.

The Barca captain is not short on interest from clubs abroad, and the Catalan giants are planning for a future without the Spanish playmaker.

However, it is understood that their renewed interest in Amrabat is concrete regardless of what happens with Busquets this summer.

Amrabat came close to moving to Spotify Camp Nou in the January transfer market but Barca could not strike a deal with Fiorentina, who proved to be tough negotiators.

The 26-year-old’s contract will expire in the summer of 2024, and the Viola are looking to ward off interest in their key player with a new and improved contract.

They may be forced into sanctioning a sale this summer, with the Morocco international reportedly unwilling to extend his stay at the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Barca’s interest in Amrabat has not faded despite seeing their previous lucrative loan with the option to buy offer turned down by the Italians.

The Spanish giants will return for his signature this summer, looking to strike a deal at a reasonable price, especially considering that his contract expires in 2024.

Amrabat will prove good value for money should the Catalan giants pull off the deal with the Moroccan capable of providing competition for Frenkie De Jong and Busquets.

Barca already have a contingency plan in place if they fail to sign Amrabat the second time of asking, with Real Betis’ Guido Rodriguez on their radar.

The 29-year-old also has one year left on his current contract with Los Verdiblancos and could be available on a cut-price deal this summer.