Barcelona renew interest in Hoffenheim attacker Fisnik Asllani | OneFootball

Kicker confirms a report originating in Catalan sports newspaper Sport regarding FC Barcelona’s interest in Hoffenheim attacker Fisnik Asllani. Apparently, the Blaugrana are once again considering TSG Hoffenheim striker Fisnik Asllani as a potential summer reinforcement.

The 23-year-old Kosovo international is expected to leave Hoffenheim before the transfer window closes, with RB Leipzig still considered the leading candidate for his signature. Leipzig will nevertheless have to work quickly to reduce their squad size before completing an expensive Asllani purchase.

Asllani maintains a €35m estimated market value in the latest Transfermarkt listings. It might prove the case that Leipzig will miss out. The Saxon club are attempting to reduce a squad previously containing 35 players on the payroll.

Barcelona’s interest has reportedly intensified after the proposed transfer of Bournemouth attacker Eli Junior Kroupi collapsed. The Frenchman requires foot surgery and is expected to remain unavailable for several months.

Asllani has consequently moved higher up Barcelona’s shortlist as the Spanish champions assess alternative attacking options.

Fisnik Asllani prefers a move abroad

Asllani was already thought to prefer a move abroad despite interest from Leipzig, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund. Barcelona would therefore represent an attractive destination should the Catalan club decide to formalize their interest.

The Bundesliga striker initially appeared to be only a secondary Barcelona option while the club prioritized other targets. Kroupi’s injury has now altered the situation and potentially opened a clearer route to Catalonia.

No concrete Barcelona offer has yet been reported. Leipzig remain well positioned, but Asllani’s future may now depend on whether Barça convert their renewed interest into formal negotiations with Hoffenheim.

FCB head coach Hansi Flick has already managed to recruit one German to his club this summer. Asllani, born and raised in Berlin, represented Germany at U18 and U20 levels before switching back to his heritage country. 

GGFN | Peter Weis