Pundit and ex-Aston Villa midfielder Paul Merson told Sky Sports that Barcelona should try to sign Jack Grealish from Aston Villa even if it costs them £120m.
The 25-year-old has been outstanding this season and is arguably one of the best playmakers in Europe right now, so it’s a fair argument that a club like the La Liga giants could benefit from his talents.
Merson said: “I’m looking at £120/130m for him, I would pay. If I’m Barcelona I’m buying him tomorrow morning because Jack Grealish at the Nou Camp would absolutely rip it up.”
However, he is ignoring the Catalans’ financial difficulties, which could prevent them from shelling out so much money on one player.
Barcelona are believed to be nearing bankruptcy and have failed to pay some first team players their full wages. The Spanish giants still owe money to Liverpool for Philippe Coutinho, who left the Reds in January 2018, so they don’t have the resources for a lucrative spend.
That is why they are reportedly showing an interest in Sergio Aguero, as he could be a free agent in the coming months, so Grealish isn’t a realistic signing for them this summer.
READ ASTON VILLA VERDICT
Merson has ignored the biggest obstacle to Barcelona strengthening their squad ahead of next season, so Villa fans don’t need to worry about a potential move.
This writer already explained why a Premier League club won’t be luring Grealish away from Villa Park and it doesn’t appear that Barcelona can either. In truth, there are very few clubs in Europe who would be able to procure his signature.
