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Barcelona secured a hard-fought 2-1 win over Valencia at the Mestalla on Saturday, August 17, in La Liga. Robert Lewandowski scored a brace to help his team come from a goal down and collect all three points.
Meanwhile, the Catalans are ready to push for the services of an English full-back who plays for Liverpool. Elsewhere, the Spanish giants have received a boost in their efforts to sign Bayern Munich's Kingsley Coman this summer.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from August 18, 2024.
Barcelona eyeing Trent Alexander-Arnold
Barcelona are ready to fight for Trent Alexander-Arnold's services, according to Fichajes. The Catalans are looking for a new right-back this summer and have their eyes on Joao Cancelo. However, Manchester City's valuation of the Portuguese full-back has forced them to consider alternatives.
Alexander-Arnold has popped up on their radar. The Englishman has consistently been among the finest in his position in Europe and is now wanted at Camp Nou. He has entered the final year of his contract with Liverpool and is yet to sign a new deal.
While it is unlikely that the 25-year-old will leave this year, there's a good chance that he could be available on a Bosman move in 2025. Real Madrid are already hot on Alexander-Arnold's heels and have identified him as a possible successor for Dani Carvajal.
However, Barcelona are plotting to ruin their plans. The Catalans are facing financial difficulties, but remain as ambitious as ever. They want to rope in the best players in the world, so the Liverpool man's availability on a Bosman move next summer could suit their plans.
However, the Merseyside club remain determined to tie the Englishman down to a new deal. Arne Slot wants the player in his squad and the Reds are unlikely to give up without a fight.
Catalans receive Kingsley Coman boost
Kingsley Coman is eager to leave Bayern Munich this summer, according to acclaimed journalist Fabrizio Romano. The French forward has emerged as a target for Barcelona in recent weeks.
The Catalans had spent all their efforts on securing the services of Nico Williams this summer. However, it looks increasingly likely that the Spaniard will snub a move to Camp Nou in favour of staying with Athletic Bilbao.
The situation has forced Barcelona to consider alternatives and Hansi Flick has identified Coman as an option. The 28-year-old played under the German manager during their time together at the Allianz Arena. Flick is convinced that the Frenchman could be a fine fit for his tactics at Camp Nou.
However, the Catalans will face competition from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) as well as Premier League clubs for Coman. The player is determined to end his association with the Bavarians before the end of this month.
Hansi Flick wants Ilkay Gundogan stay
Hansi Flick is hoping that Ilkay Gundogan will stay at Barcelona beyond this summer. The German midfielder's future at Camp Nou has been subject to speculation of late.
Gundogan joined the Catalans as a free agent last summer following the expiry of his contract with Manchester City. The 33-year-old was a huge hit under Xavi, racking up five goals and 14 assists from 51 games across competitions.
Gundogan is expected to continue his run with the La Liga giants under Flick this season. However, recent reports have suggested that the German midfielder has decided to leave amid interest from Fenerbahce and Galatasaray.
Speaking after the win over Valencia, Flick stated that he has already spoken to his compatriot about his future.
"On Monday, he had a cut [on his head] and some problems with that, so we took the decision to leave him at home. I spoke with him [this week], it's true, yes. I spoke just to know how he is feeling," said Flick.
He continued:
"I know him very well. I appreciate what kind of player he is and also as a person. We spoke about everything. It's not for you [to know], it's just for us. I have the feeling that he will stay."
Gundogan has previously expressed a desire to stay at Barcelona this season.
