Former Bayern Munich midfielder pitches to Barcelona as De Jong out

Having logged more than 2,300 minutes for Bayern Munich last season, 30‑year‑old German midfielder Leon Goretzka is now a free agent after his contract expired, and, according to journalist Matteo Moretto (h/t SPORT), he has offered himself to Barcelona in recent hours.

Goretzka’s representatives have contacted Barcelona’s sporting department, signalling interest in joining Hansi Flick’s project following Dutchman Frenkie de Jong’s long‑term knee injury, which is expected to keep the player out for around four months after the World Cup.

The German midfielder previously worked under Flick at Bayern Munich between 2019 and 2021, making 64 appearances and contributing 15 goals and 18 assists, and also featured for the German NT during Flick’s successful spell at the Allianz Arena.

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Barcelona’s sporting department, led by Deco, say they are not planning a midfield reinforcement, believing the squad already has sufficient depth to cope with De Jong’s absence and that the situation will not alter the club’s plans for Marc Casado.

The Catalan side also consider the academy graduate De Jong should seek regular first‑team football elsewhere, and while they will not force a departure, they intend to help him find a new team.

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Last season Goretzka played more than 2,300 minutes across 48 appearances for Bayern Munich; although not an undisputed starter under Vincent Kompany, he remained an important squad member as Bayern completed a domestic clean sweep and reached the UEFA Champions League semi‑finals.

For now Barcelona’s position remains unchanged, focusing on existing midfield options rather than pursuing the experienced German international, despite his availability on a free transfer.