Barcelona have one of the best squads in Europe at the moment, but there are a few positions in the squad that need to be addressed keeping in mind the long-term effects, to try and retain their status at the top of Europe.
This has seen the Catalan giants linked with some of the finest stars in the game and the latest name reportedly on their radar is Nikola Milenkovic.
Italian news outfit Repubblica (as cited by TMW) claim that the Fiorentina star, who is already scouted by the likes of Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and Manchester United, is now also wanted by Barcelona.
But who is Milenkovic and why are Barcelona interested?
Milenkovic And His Rise
Having started his senior career with Partizan in his home town, the 22-year old spent just a season in the first team before moving to Serie A with Fiorentina.
The versatile defender made 14 league starts in his first season at the club and ever since, has cemented his place in the first team.
He started 34 games for the club last season, playing at the heart of the defence and at right-back to good effect.
Known for his strength in the air and ability to sniff danger early, Milenkovic’s understanding of the game is what makes him a wanted man in Europe.
He does give away needless fouls at times, but he is pro-active with his defending, creating trouble for even the best of strikers in the league.
The 22-year old started all his game this season as a centre-back winning 1.8 aerial duels per game. However, he has also registered 1.6 tackles, 1 interception and 3.3 clearances per game, showing an all-round ability to dominate his box.
He is also calm with the ball at his feet and though cannot break lines with his passing, is more than adept at keeping the ball rolling.
At just 22, he has a stellar future ahead of him and will be a decent coup for most teams in Europe.
Right Man For Barcelona?
Valverde has Samuel Umtiti and Clement Lenglet to partner Gerard Pique at the back this season in the first team.
Jean-Clair Todibo does not seem ready for the rigours of La Liga, while Pique has turned 32 and may not be the first choice for too long at the club.
This has left the Spanish giants in a real search for a quality defender, who can make an impact at the club, and Milenkovic fits the bill well.
The Fiorentina man can take his time, learning from the French and Spanish internationals before fighting for a place in the first team.
Milenkovic already has 18 international caps and is an experienced player who can solve an impending issue at Camp Nou.
