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Barcelona's Hidden Move: Goretzka on the Verge of a Flick-Style Reunion

6 January 2026

Barcelona's Hidden Move: Goretzka on the Verge of a Flick-Style Reunion
Barcelona reportedly pursuing Goretzka as Flick pushes for a reunion

The Catalan club is weighing the deal amid other priorities.

Goretzka on Barcelona's Radar

Goretzka, Bayern Munich's German midfielder, has emerged on Barcelona's transfer radar as his contract nears expiry this season, already.

He shows little sign of renewing with the Bavarians after his game time slipped, despite featuring in 23 matches this campaign.

Sport reports that the Catalans are watching his situation closely at Flick's direct request, linking the move to Barcelona's coach influence.

The German international has given Barcelona top priority for a June signing, eager to work again with his former coach, with whom he shares a personal bond.

Goretzka has refused to negotiate an extension, preferring to wait until the end of the season to decide his next destination or stay.

He already has a solid Napoli offer, while several English clubs have sounded him out, but he plans to pause everything until Barcelona's path becomes clear in the summer.

Barca remains keen on free agents, even if a midfielder isn't their top priority at the moment right now anyway.

The club plans to push for a centre-back and a left winger this summer, alongside deciding fate of Marcus Rashford.

Barcelona will study a pure striker if Lewandowski’s contract isn’t renewed this summer.

Punchline 1: Barca chasing a free transfer—it's like finding a unicorn that actually arrives with zero price tag and, somehow, a good sense of humor.

Punchline 2: Flick orchestrating a reunion—because every great squad needs a friend request that actually lands, not just a backup plan on a tweet.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Barcelona considering Goretzka now?

Because his Bayern contract ends this season and Barca is aiming to refresh midfield with a free option, per reports and a direct request from Flick.

What could motivate Goretzka to move?

A chance to work again with Flick and to join a club with ongoing competitive ambitions, plus a likely favourable contract situation once the season ends.

Which other players or targets are mentioned?

Barça is also linked with free transfers, center-back and left-wing reinforcements, and a potential forward if Lewandowski's deal isn’t renewed.