Amrabat in pole position as Barca hunt Busquets replacement

FC Barcelona have been thinking about a replacement for Sergio Busquets for too long. The experiments within the squad have not been satisfactory. It's a chronic 'problem' to which, now, a solution will have to be found. There is no other way. The 'No 5' is leaving. One of the key figures in the best era in the club's history says goodbye. 

A unique footballer who Pep Guardiola discovered and moulded into one of the best pivots in the history of football. A man capable of making up for his slowness or lack of agility with a superb reading of the game and brutal tactical intelligence. Now the Badia-born man has taken the decision to go, the technical staff must fix this unresolved issue that has been pending for so many years. 

There are profiles on the table. There are favourites, there are others who are liked more, but they are unapproachable. The fact is that the four big names on the market are Sofyan Amrabat, Ruben Neves, Martín Zubimendi and Guido Rodríguez. With diametrically opposed contexts. 

AMRABAT, A PRIORITY

The Moroccan was very close to arriving in the winter transfer window. He forced everything he could with Fiorentina, but Barça could not afford his transfer. He is probably the best positioned. A 'hunting dog' in midfield with a good touch (far from 'Busi', let's not fool ourselves, he's got a different profile), with authority and personality. Barça could go as high as 25 million for him. 

The one Xavi likes the most (an open secret) is Martin Zubimendi. Young, with very good ball control, intelligent. But his clause of 60m is an almost insurmountable barrier. The club cannot afford him under the current conditions.

Ruben Neves (more if Deco comes in as director of football) is the one the club is betting on. A Jorge Mendes player, physically strong and technically gifted. 

And the last name that has come into play is that of Guido Rodriguez. Now a world champion with Argentina and one of the leaders of Betis. Personality, experience, proven talent. He has a contract until 2024 and, for now, his renewal is at a standstill. A 'distant' alternative, but the most affordable financially.