It’s no secret that FC Barcelona are targeting a new left-sided attacker this summer to strengthen Hansi Flick’s options. While Raphinha has admirably filled the role this past season, there’s a growing sense that his skill set could be better utilized in more central areas. What this means is that the club needs to sign a new left winger.
It helps that Barcelona have almost finalized an exit for out-of-favour attacker Ansu Fati, who is a natural left winger. This opens a spot in the squad that the new signing could potentially fill, and there are a number of candidates.
Dynamic Brazilian profile
Sources have informed Sempre Barca that Barcelona are eyeing Feyenoord youngster Igor Paixao as a potential signing for the left wing position. The Catalan club is aiming to add dynamism to the front line, and the Brazilian fits the profile.
Sempre Barca have learnt that Barcelona manager Hansi Flick appreciates the 24-year-old’s versatility and ability to play on either wing. If needed, the Brazilian can also play in central roles, although most of his football this campaign has come from the left.
In 47 matches across all competitions for Feyenoord this season, Paixao has scored 18 goals and provided 19 assists. The Dutch club is aware of the interest in the player and is demanding €35-40 million to sell him this summer.
Sources have revealed that it is not just Barcelona in the race for the player. Arsenal, Liverpool, Aston Villa, Atalanta, Napoli, and AS Roma are also monitoring Paixao’s situation closely. Scouts of the Catalan club have followed the player through the season, but it is not clear if Barcelona will make an official bid.
Chance to play with his role model
Some time ago, in an interview with TNT Sports Brazil, Paixao revealed that Raphinha was an example for him and many other Brazilians. If he moves to Barcelona, he would get a chance to play alongside his role model. Here is what the youngster said:
“Raphinha is an example for me and all of us Brazilians.”
Barcelona’s search for a new winger doesn’t necessarily need to be someone who is experienced, as Raphinha covers that department. Taking a punt on a youngster like Paixao would be a bold move from the Catalan club.
With his admiration for Raphinha already on record and an open role on the left wing, a transfer to Camp Nou might be a perfect fit. Whether Barca make a formal bid remains to be seen, but they may need to act fast to stay ahead in the race.
