3 alternate players that could thrive at Barcelona

Just like every other European club, Catalan giants Barcelona are working tirelessly in the transfer market as they look forward to strengthening major areas of their squad before the new campaign begins.

In fact, the club recently appointed former defender Eric Abidal as their new technical director, with the 38-year-old expected to make a handful of good acquisitions before the transfer window closes.

Although they have already signed Sevilla centre-back Clement Lenglet and Brazilian youngster Arthur Melo from Gremio in recent weeks, the arrival of these players is only an indication of what is to come as the La Liga champions are still heavily involved in the transfer market at present.

While the club has identified plenty of big names - Eden Hazard, N'Golo Kanté, Willian, Thiago Alcantara and Christian Eriksen to name but a few, here we take a look at three alternative options who could all succeed at the Camp Nou in future:

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#3 Frenkie de Jong

de Jong has shown his capabilities to fit in seamlessly at Barca

Dutch giants Ajax have supplied Barcelona with a number of incredible superstars in the past, with the likes of Johan Cruyff, Ronald Koeman and Patrick Kluivert completing famous moves to the Camp Nou.

Now that Andres Iniesta has departed, they might only need to get back in touch with their Eredivisie counterparts and sign highly-rated youngster Frenkie de Jong to replace the creative Spaniard.

de Jong, 21, is one of the league's brightest prospects at present. The midfielder's playing style suits that of Barcelona - who are famous for their build-up play and dominating possession. His ability to create space, dribble beautifully and pinpoint killer passes for teammates makes him an ideal player to target too.

If the reports are to be believed, the Blaugrana are already trying to convince Ajax to part ways with the player, with both clubs reportedly negotiating a deal worth €30 million this summer.

#2 Joshua Kimmich

An experienced option for Barcelona at right-back

Although there are numerous right-backs in the transfer market, only few can compare with the incredible talents of Bayern Munich superstar Joshua Kimmich. The 23-year-old moved to the Allianz Arena three years ago from RB Leipzig and ever since, has established himself as one of the world's finest defenders.

Given his vast experience, amazing knowledge and intelligence, he can walk into almost any defence across Europe. A player who loves to play the ball on the ground, he marauds forward regularly to support attacks and equally provides rigidity at the back when called upon.

A deal for the German ace would make sense from Barca's perspective at the moment, as the 23-year-old is still young but possesses the ability and a style of play which perfectly suits Barcelona's philosophy.

#1 Adrien Rabiot

Rabiot would strengthen Barca in the middle of the pitch

Having helped Barcelona to claim a domestic double last season, club legend Iniesta and Brazilian midfielder Paulinho both left for Japan and a return to China respectively.

As a result, their absences has left a significant hole in Barca's midfield and forced the Blaugrana to scour the world for ideal, quality replacements. But while the club has already been linked with a wide range of players, Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Adrien Rabiot could be their ultimate solution on a long-term basis.

The 23-year-old was an ever-present presence in Unai Emery's side which claimed the Ligue 1 title last term, racking up 50 appearances (across all comps) under the Spaniard's tutelage. A highly-talented and intelligent player, Rabiot has the potential to prove a success at the Camp Nou, given his excellent passing range, decent link-up play and smart movement.

Reports have suggested that they are already working towards a €40m deal to lure him away from the Parc des Princes this summer.