Barcelona ‘could end their pursuit’ of Liverpool star Georginio Wijnaldum as they ‘consider handing first-team role’ to teenage wonderkid Ilaix Moriba permanently from next season
- Georginio Wijnaldum has been a target for Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman
- The Dutch midfielder will see his contract at Liverpool end this summer
- Barcelona could end up dropping their interest in Dutch midfielder Wijnaldum
- The club are keen on youth star Ilaix Moriba who has impressed this season
Barcelona could end their pursuit of Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum and instead give more game-time to youth star Ilaix Moriba, according to reports.
The Dutch midfielder, whose deal at Anfield expires at the end of the season, has been a target for Ronald Koeman since he took over at the Nou Camp last summer and talks have reportedly been held over a free transfer.
Sky Sports have reported that Wijnaldum is waiting for an offer while new club president Joan Laporta reviews the club’s financial position, with the LaLiga giants believed to be carrying debts in the excess of more than £1billion.
Barcelona could be set to end their interest in upcoming free-agent Georginio Wijnaldum
Youngster Ilaix Moriba has impressed for Barcelona and could be given regular game-time
It is added, however, that Laporta’s officials are discussing with Koeman’s technical staff whether to promote Moriba permanently after an impressive breakthrough season.
Moriba has been with the Catalan giants since he was seven years old, progressing through the club’s La Masia academy and is now regarded as one of the club’s brightest talents.
The 18-year-old midfielder made his debut in January in the Copa del Rey and then his LaLiga debut came less than a month later as he assisted a goal against Alaves.
Joan Laporta is keen for Barcelona to focus on developing the club’s La Masia graduates
He has since scored against Osasuna in the league, while creating assists in games against Sevilla and Real Sociedad.
It is believed that Laporta is keen for Barcelona to return to their roots and focus on developing their La Masia talents into key members of the first-team.
The decision would come as a blow to any hope Wijnaldum might have of reuniting with his former Dutch national coach Koeman this summer.
Wijnaldum though is seen as an integral asset to Liverpool, and the club could still look to sign him to a new extension.
