Following the collapse of the Nico Williams transfer, Barcelonaâs management was taken aback by a bold suggestion from rising star Pedri. He directly addressed the clubâs decision-makers, recommending a specific player he believes would be the perfect alternative to fill the void. The unexpected choice has sparked significant buzz among Barça supporters, as many see him as a potential game-changer for Hansi Flickâs project.
The player in question is Xavi Simons â a former La Masia product who left for Paris Saint-Germain, where he developed into one of Europeâs brightest young talents. Pedri sees Simons as an ideal fit to enhance Barcelonaâs midfield, highlighting his creativity, technical skill, and leadership despite his youth.
Pedriâs suggestion has found support among several young squad members, including Alejandro Balde â a close friend of Simons â as well as Lamine Yamal and FermĂn LĂłpez, who are reportedly enthusiastic about his potential arrival.
However, the move faces two major hurdles: finances and positional needs. RB Leipzig, where Simons is currently playing, are said to be asking for around âŹ70 million â a sum Barcelona can’t meet unless they offload a key player like Ronald AraĂșjo or Marc-AndrĂ© ter Stegen. Additionally, while Flick is seeking a quick, explosive winger, Simons is more of a central attacking midfielder, which raises questions about tactical fit.
Still, if the deal goes through, Simons would be a significant asset to Flickâs vision of a youthful and ambitious squad featuring names like Balde, Yamal, FermĂn, and Juan GarcĂa. Pedri believes that bringing in Simons could breathe new life into Barcelonaâs midfield and help realize the style and identity Flick aims to establish in the coming season.
