Barcelona’s defensive quality came to the fore against Valencia to win all three points and maintain pressure on second-placed Real Madrid. The visitors at Camp Nou remained in the game right till the end, with only Raphinha’s 16th-minute goal separating the two sides. In the second-half, Ferran Torres missed the opportunity to double the lead from the spot after a disagreement with Ansu Fati.
From Torres to Raphinha and Fati, Barca forwards have struggled to find the back of the net all season. Even Robert Lewandowski, who was unavailable for the Valencia game, has not managed to strike the ball as well as his old self since the World Cup break.
A new summer signing in the attacking department could ensure Barcelona remain ahead of Real Madrid next season as well. And even better if they manage to pluck a forward from their title rivals.
According to Gerard Romero (via Transfer News Live), super agent Jorge Mendes has offered Marco Asensio to the Catalan outfit, who admire the player’s versatility. The Spain international is willing to listen to Barcelona’s transfer offer.
Barcelona offered the chance to sign ‘angry’ Real Madrid star
Despite not starting regularly under Carlo Ancelotti, Asensio has been directly involved in seven league goals (via Transfermarkt) this season, proving he has the ability to make a difference off the bench.
As per SPORT, the ‘angry’ Real Madrid star, who has been a crucial part of Los Blancos’ recent success in the Champions League, is disappointed with Ancelotti’s sporting decisions of late.
The current situation has forced him to ‘seriously’ rethink his future at Santiago Bernabéu. European powerhouses AC Milan and Arsenal have spoken to his entourage as well.
The 27-year-old, who will be free to leave Real Madrid at the end of the season, was an unused substitute in their goalless draw against Real Betis. Ancelotti preferred to introduce Alvaro, 18, in search of a breakthrough goal. Asensio also remained on the bench against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey.