Right now there seems to be a battle of versions between media outlets in Spain about how true the story is, but maybe there is something to the tidbit of news about Barcelona looking to add another centre back and setting their sights on Jerome Boateng of Bayern Munich.
The debate is simple. Marca, through their radio station, are reporting that Barcelona are meeting with Boateng’s agent nad have been hearing a price tag of €39 million from Bayern Munich for the international defender who can play in other positions as well. According to Sport, there is no truth to these rumors, and Barcelona are denying any interest in the 25 year old.
So what’s the truth? Looking at Barcelona this summer, we’re learning that all the talk about building from within and a certain home-grown philosophy simply depends on how talented the generation coming out of La Masia is. Right now, Barcelona are purchasing like a crazed shopper through a midnight sale at IKEA.
Their centre back problems aren’t new. Jeremy Mathieu was purchased from Valencia to fix those issues, but how long will his addition last? He isn’t young, and he’s not exactly a World Class type of player. Boateng is a different story. He was fantastic for Germany in the World Cup, featuring the moment Joachim Low understood Per Mertesacker isn’t going to win him anything. He played very well in both the semifinal and final, with some even considering him to be the man of the match.
There’s still time before the season begins and Barcelona, despite spending well over €100 million so far, aren’t done opening their wallet. There’s nothing about values or long-term approach in how they’re handling their summer business, but it’s time to stop being naive, and simply join the rat race by spending just as much as Real Madrid, as their advantage of better academy players doesn’t work every year.