As the hunt for a new defensive midfielder continues at FC Barcelona, several names have been touted as targets. Martin Zubimendi and Joshua Kimmich appear to be at the top of the wishlist, while Sofyan Amrabat appears to be the most feasible option. Links to Ruben Neves persist as well.
Another name that has been thrown in the mix in recent weeks is Real Betis and Argentina star Guido Rodriguez.
Indeed, according to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are interested in the 29-year-old World Cup winner but have not made any move in order to sign him as of yet.
Rodriguez has been with Real Betis since 2020 and has grown into a pivotal player for the Seville-based outfit. But his contract with the club expires next year.
As per the report, Rodriguez and his entourage are aware of the interest from the La Liga champions.
While it was initially anticipated that the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner with Argentina would renew his contract with Real Betis, the entry of Barcelona in the picture may change things, even though the Blaugrana are yet to hold any talks with his club.
Recently, Los Verdiblancos’ president Angel Haro commented on Rodriguez’s future, stating that he remains a key part of the setup at Estadio Benito Villamarin and that there had been no talks with Barça about a transfer.
“Guido is a very important player for us, who is helping us a lot and we want him to continue doing so in the future. We know what is said. Barca has never called us for Guido and we are counting on him,” he said.
While that may be so, Real Betis are facing some financial problems and Guido Rodriguez is one of their most sellable assets. So, the possibility of an exit is not entirely off the table at this point.
Furthermore, the report adds that the Verdiblancos are looking for a new midfielder in the market with players like Jefferson Lerma, Luan, and Florian Grillitsch being linked, which could further hint at a potential departure for Rodriguez.
As things stand, however, there has been no movement from Barcelona’s part towards signing the Argentine international and whether it changes in the future remains to be seen.
