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What's the story?
Barcelona have long been linked with Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho, but now latest reports from Spanish outlet Don Balon (via The Express) claim that the Catalan giants have turned their attention towards Juventus star Miralem Pjanic.
Pjanic has been in fine form for the Old Lady and is one of their main creative influences. Calm, composed and extremely skilful from set-pieces, Pjanic is seen as an ideal long-term replacement for the likes of Andres Iniesta and Ivan Rakitic.
With Pjanic reportedly available for a price much lesser than that of Coutinho, Barcelona manager Ernesto Valverde has reportedly greenlighted the move and told the Barca board to go ahead and negotiate Pjanic's transfer with Juventus.
Also read: Ballon d'Or 2017: 5 players who deserved to be ranked higher
In case you didn't know...
Barcelona have been on the lookout for a quality midfielder/playmaker since last summer. While the likes of Coutinho, Willian and even Ozil have been linked with the Catalan giants, it seems like Valverde has finally turned his attention towards the excellent Pjanic.
Having signed for Juventus from Roma last year, the 27-year-old star has quickly established himself as one of the best midfielders in the League. Blessed with excellent vision and passing, Pjanic will definitely suit Barcelona's unique style of play.
The heart of the matter
The Catalan giants have made an extremely impressive start to the season and Valverde is determined to win La Liga in his first season as Barcelona manager. Although Pjanic will not be allowed to play Champions League games for Barca this season (he is cup-tied because he already represented Juventus), his signing will certainly add an extra dimension to the Barcelona attack.
With Paulinho having settled in brilliantly and Ousmane Dembele on his way back, Valverde is confident that Pjanic will be able to make Barcelona one of the greatest teams in Europe once again.
Also read: Barcelona ready to offer Arda Turan in exchange for Premier League superstar
Video
Pjanic is definitely one of the best midfielders in world football at the moment.
Author's take
With Liverpool standing firm and refusing to sell Coutinho for anything less than £120 million, Pjanic could prove to be an excellent alternative for Barca. With the midfielder himself reportedly keen on a move to the Camp Nou, Barcelona should do everything in their power to secure the signing of the 27-year-old Juventus superstar.
Also read: 10 players who could have won Ballon d'Or if Messi and Ronaldo did not exist
