FC Barcelona have been linked with Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, who will leave Paris Saint-Germain after his contract expires at the end of the month.
The Blaugrana are interested in bringing the former Juventus ‘keeper to Camp Nou as a back-up for German International Marc Andre Ter Stegen, as per Italian outlet Calcio Mercato,
Buffon will most likely fulfil the role Jasper Cillessen did at the club. The Dutchman has already signalled his desire to leave the Catalan club in the summer in search of regular first-team football.
Alongside Barcelona, the 2006 World Cup winner has numerous offers from China, Brazil, Germany and Turkey.
The 41-year-old made 25 appearances for PSG, lifting two trophies in Ligue 1 and the French Super Cup during his time at Parc des Princes.
Buffon to Camp Nou: A good move by the club?
The veteran goalkeeper has won every trophy at the top level, except the Champions League, and moving to Camp Nou could potentially help him achieve his dream.
From Barcelona’s perspective, this move has quite a few positives, but negatives as well. Buffon would be happy to take the secondary role as he is likely to feature in the cups more than the league.
The Italian International will add experience and leadership to the dressing room, and even though he is 41, he is still a top ‘keeper when called upon.
Economically, he would come as a free agent, but then again the Italian’s wages could become a problem.
The veteran’s arrival might also hamper the development of the upcoming La Masia product in Inaki Pena, who is 20 years old and ready to make it to the first team at significantly lower wages compared to Buffon.
Lastly, it could send a wrong message to all the budding youngsters in the academy and Barca B team, who are working hard to make their dream come true of making it to the first team.
In the future, this could lead to budding talents moving away from the club at a younger age rather than wait for their opportunity.
All in all, this move carries more negatives than positives for Barcelona.
Stat Courtesy: Transfermarkt
