Barcelona: Xavi wants Salzburg star Adeyemi to partner Ansu Fati

Barcelona manager Xavi has made his first transfer request to the Camp Nou board, the legendary midfielder identifying Salzburg and Germany striker Karim Adeyemi as his primary target according to German media outlet Sport1. The 19-year-old has been setting the Austrian Bundesliga alight this season with 15 goals in 22 appearances, leading to comparisons with another Salzburg breakout star, Borussia Dortmund sensation Erling Haaland. Sport1 reported on Friday that Adeyemi’s agents were in Barcelona a few weeks ago, prior to Xavi’s arrival to replace Ronald Koeman, to discuss the possibility of a deal. Barcelona’s financial constraints may prove to be an issue in their pursuit of the Germany international though, with Real Madrid, PSG and Liverpool all credited with an interest.

Adeyemi’s representatives, Kick & Run Sports Group EU, have been in contact with several clubs about their client and were also in Madrid last week to speak to the Bernabéu board, who have also expressed an interest in the striker. As well as a visit to Madrid’s Valdebebas training complex, Adeyemi’s agents also dropped in on Atlético. Bayern Munich are also in the mix as they Bundesliga giants search for a long-term successor to Robert Lewandowski while Borussia Dortmund are also keeping a close eye on developments with Haaland seemingly set for a move next summer.

Adeyemi: "There is no deadline over my future"

Although he is aware of the interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs, Adeyemi has stated he is happy at Salzburg for now. Asked recently about a possible transfer to Dortmund, the forward replied: The red and black [Salzburg’s colours] feels good on me. I’m happy here and I’m enjoying the moment. My head is still here, there is no deadline over my future. I want to achieve our objectives at Salzburg, that’s the only thing that matters to me.”

Barcelona, along with the rest of Adeyemi’s suitors, have been informed of his situation and the conditions for any deal: he has a contract at Salzburg until 2024 and will not be leaving on the cheap. However, the Austrian side are well-known for their practice of developing young talent to cash in at the best possible price.