Barcelona update: Garcia announcement, Barella link, Firpo interests, Koeman frustration

Barcelona appointed Ronald Koeman as new manager

Garcia announcement imminent, Serie A midfielder linked, Firpo attracting interest, Koeman’s frustration after Copa del Rey win.

Eric Garcia announcement on the horizon

Barcelona are reportedly set to announce the signing of Manchester City centre-back Eric Garcia by next week. The Spaniard will join the Catalan club on a free transfer at the end of this season.

Ronald Koeman has made it clear to the interim president Carlos Tusquets and the presidential candidates that he bets on Garcia.

Although the Dutch gaffer prefers to have the former La Masia defender this month, he looks happy to acquire his services from the start of the next season.

Nicolo Barella wanted

Inter midfielder Nicolo Barella is said to be subject of transfer interest from Barcelona alongside arch-rivals Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.

The 23-year-old has emerged as one of the best midfielders in Serie A this season after some impressive displays.

Junior Firpo gaining interest

Barca’s out-of-favour left-back Junior Firpo has been reportedly enquired by West Ham United and AC Milan over a possible transfer, with the latter one looking more interested.

Firpo has failed to make an impact since his transfer from Real Betis and is currently serving as a back-up to Jordi Alba.

Koeman not happy with Copa del Rey performance.

Koeman has expressed his dismay over the Catalans display against Cornella in the Copa del Rey, although the Dutchman’s side ended up as the winners.

The Catalans were lacklustre for several bouts, missing two penalties, but only gained momentum in the extra time, where Ousmane Dembele and Martin Braithwaite scored to win the game.

“We have to win the game earlier. We have to be more efficient. I don’t understand how with the players we have we can’t score (penalties), maybe it’s fear, I don’t know. But you can’t miss two penalties as Barcelona players, that’s not serious.”

“And there is not so much pressure to take penalties because of no atmosphere, no pressure from fans. We need cool heads and to score. Missing penalties is part of the job but we can’t accept missing two in a game like today.”