'It's not easy': Deco names 2 players who could replace Busquets

"It’s almost impossible to replace Busquets. Rodri is the closest, but City would never sell him to any club!" Deco has told the media, via Fabrizio Romano.

"Kimmich is another top player... but it's also not easy to sign him. Look at how much Chelsea paid for Caicedo, it’s not easy at all," Barca's sporting director added.

One thing worth a mention here is that Joshua Kimmich's current deal with Bayern Munich expires in a year, so Barca might get him for a relatively low cost. This isn't possible with Rodri, the best player in his position and with the contract until 2027.

Barcelona's preferred option to strengthen the defensive midfield is said to be Martin Zubimendi who would cost around €60m.