Following the humiliation at the hands at Bayern Munich, Barcelona are looking to make some changes to their squad. New manager Ronald Koeman made it clear that he wanted Memphis Depay at the club, and according to Fabrizio Romano, the deal will be completed with Lyon accepting a £30 million bid, plus the add ons reported by Mike Verweij of the telegraaf.
REPORT: Depay to Complete Barcelona Move
Versatile Attacker
The Dutchman is capable of playing all along the front three, which is always a boost for any manager. Depay’s pace and trickery, as well as his vision, could combine well with Lionel Messi, Antoine Griezmann and Ansu Fati next season.
If Koeman opts to play Messi as a false 9, Depay can play on the wing, while he can also take up the central role if Messi plays on the right or in midfield. He brings another option to present a threat to the opposition next season.
It’s very possible that this could be Messi’s last season in Spain, so he will be tasked with leading the club’s rebuild. Depay is entering his prime and could be a valuable addition to a side in need of a boost.
Dutch Connection
Having coached Depay in his previous job as manager of the Netherlands, Koeman knows him and his skill set very well, which could make it an easier transition for him. The 26-year-old will join a team that has developed a massive Dutch presence in their history.
Koeman himself is a Barca legend, as well as PSG director Patrick Kluivert, and of course, Johan Cruyff, arguably the most important person in Barcelona’s history. Not to mention Frenkie De Jong, who looks on his way to become a fellow legend himself.
Having a manager who knows him and an international teammate to introduce him to his new teammates will be very useful as he looks to seamlessly slot into his new side. Depay will look to continue the tradition of wonderful Dutch players at Barcelona, and make his own mark on La Liga and the club.
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