KEY POINTS

  • One of Borussia Dortmund's top stars Raphael Guerreiro is linked to Barcelona
  • This rumored transfer was said to be met with Lionel Messi's approval
  • The addition of Guerreiro can assist players such as Jordi Alba and Junior Firpo

It’s important that the board in every club understands the needs of its top players in terms of making critical offseason signings. A recent report speculating that Borussia Dortmund's Raphael Guerreiro is linked to Barca is reportedly met with approval from Lionel Messi.

There’s no question that Guerreiro is one of the bigger names in the market. The Portuguese football player has been a staple name for the German club Borussia Dortmund and has made a name for himself as a formidable midfielder. The 26-year-old has proven himself as a gifted offensive superstar with the way he’s able to move around the pitch.

In 115 appearances with Borussia Dortmund, Guerreiro was able to score on 23 separate occasions. To add to these, he was also able to assist on 21 goals. The way he maneuvers around the defenders and approaches the game with the combination of strength and agility puts him above everyone else.

The elite skills that Guerreiro has displayed have caught the attention of Barcelona as they’re seeking for someone of the same offensive prowess. Despite having the services of veteran Jordi Alba in their club, it would benefit the squad better if they sign someone with the youth and potential of someone like Guerreiro.

A signing like Guerreiro may assist Barcelona on the weak left flank given Junior Firpo’s recent struggles. Per Everything Barca, Messi is said to appreciate these rumors to add depth to their club. The possibility of someone like Guerreiro’s caliber would elevate Barca even more given the energy and overall consistency he adds.

Having the approval of Messi indicates the level of where Guerreiro is now and where he’s projected to be in years to come. It has been a stellar career for Messi given that he’s lauded as one of the best individual players the sport has ever seen. The record-breaking six Ballon d’Or shows the brilliance and respect he has as an athlete and a football professional.

The next few months will be interesting to monitor given how the teams are slowly bouncing back provided the current situation. Expect Barcelona and Messi to keep an eye out on these rising stars for a potential transfer in the near future.

Raphael Guerreiro (C) celebrates scoring the opening goal in Borussia Dortmund's 2-0 win at Wolfsburg in a near-empty stadium.
Raphael Guerreiro (C) celebrates scoring the opening goal in Borussia Dortmund's 2-0 win at Wolfsburg in a near-empty stadium. POOL / Michael Sohn