Injured De Jong opens door for Goretzka as Barça stays uninterested
Leon Goretzka’s representatives have put the 31‑year‑old German midfielder on FC Barcelona’s radar, a claim reported by Catalan SPORT. The offer comes as Frenkie De Jong’s injury leaves a perceived gap in the Catalan side’s midfield, prompting Goretzka’s camp to act now.
The German international enjoys a free‑transfer status after departing Bayern Munich, making him available to any club willing to meet his ambitions. His contract with Bayern was not renewed following a season of limited playing time.
Frenkie De Jong’s injury, sustained while representing the Netherlands at the World Cup, created what Goretzka’s entourage sees as an opening in Catalonia. The Dutch midfielder’s unavailability has been highlighted as a factor in the timing of the approach.
This is not the first time Goretzka has been linked with Barcelona. His previous connection to the club stemmed from a strong relationship with Hansi Flick, with whom he worked at Bayern Munich.
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Barcelona’s response to the renewed interest has been consistent: the club has reiterated that it has no current desire to add an extra midfielder to its roster. The Catalan side has made this stance clear through its official channels.
Goretzka’s desire to remain at the top level of European football drives his search for a new employer, despite the setback of reduced minutes last season. He is determined to continue competing at the highest tier.
With De Jong not fit after the World Cup, Goretzka’s representatives perceived a strategic moment to push the move forward. The timing aligns with the midfielder’s free‑agent status and Barcelona’s lack of immediate need.
Barcelona does not view the Dutch player’s injury as a serious concern, and therefore does not consider a replacement mandatory. Goretzka is not listed on Barcelona’s transfer targets, and the Catalan medium has made it clear that the German will likely have to seek opportunities elsewhere.