Barcelona identify Inter Milan mainstay as potential free-transfer target for 2027 | OneFootball

Barcelona have identified Inter Milan left-back Federico Dimarco as a potential free-transfer target for next summer, with SPORT reporting that the Italy international is keen on the possibility of wearing the Blaugrana shirt.

Dimarco’s name was already circulating around Barcelona during the summer transfer window. 

In fact, at one stage, reports suggested that they could explore a swap deal involving the wing-back and Alejandro Balde. 

Those claims had no real basis, and Dimarco has acknowledged the speculation surrounding his future.

“It’s always nice to be linked with the big clubs,” Dimarco said.

Dimarco contract situation gives Barcelona an opening

Right now, the bigger issue for Inter is his contract. Despite his importance to the club and his continued loyalty to the Nerazzurri, renewal talks have not yet started.

Barcelona are keeping a close tab on Federico Dimarco. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Dimarco’s current agreement runs until 2027, meaning he is one year away from becoming a free agent. 

As such, the absence of renewal talks gives Barcelona and other European clubs a reason to monitor developments closely.

“As for the renewal, we haven’t spoken about it yet. I expected it to be sorted given how last season ended, but we’ll have the opportunity to discuss it soon,” he confirmed.

If Inter cannot reach an agreement over a new contract, Dimarco will be available on a free transfer next year, making him one of the most attractive players available on the market.

Do Barcelona need a left-back?

Notably, Dimarco would address a position that has become increasingly complicated at Barcelona. 

This is because Balde is the club’s natural left-footed option, but Hansi Flick has not made him an automatic choice at left-back.

Federico Dimarco’s contract with Inter expires in 2027. (Photo by Janelle St Pierre/Getty Images)

The German coach has instead shown a preference for players capable of operating on the flank with their opposite foot, with Xavi Espart and Joao Cancelo featuring ahead of Balde in certain situations.

That has placed greater pressure on the 22-year-old to improve his consistency and intensity. 

Sure, Balde remains highly regarded internally, but Flick believes he is not yet showing the full level his potential suggests.

On that note, Dimarco would offer something different. He is an established Italy international, has been a key player in Inter’s recent title-winning sides and brings experience that Barcelona could value immediately.

Barcelona have increasingly looked for market opportunities that fit their financial restrictions, and a potential free transfer for Dimarco would fit that approach.

There is still time for Inter to resolve the situation, particularly with the player himself expecting discussions to take place, but if negotiations stall, Barça would have a clear reason to stay involved.