Analysis: Why it is not a good idea for Joshua Kimmich to be the main goal of the Barcelona pivot

Barcelona are expected to have a very busy summer transfer window, and plans are already in place for possible signings. Their priority is to sign a top-tier pivot, which is an area they have struggled massively this season.

The likes of Martin Zubimendi and Amadou Onana have been linked in recent weeks, but one name has stood out above the rest: Joshua Kimmich. The 29-year-old was identified as The main goal of Xavi Hernandez for the summer, and given that he has not committed his future to Bayern Munich beyond 2025, there is a chance that a deal can be made.

Barcelona are ready to go all-in on Kimmich, as Joan Laporta and Deco prepare to do their best to appease Xavi, who revealed last week that he has decided to stay on as head coach until the end of next season he previously announced in January that he will resign this summer.

However, it would not be the wisest decision for Barcelona to follow Xavi's wishes over Kimmich. Basically, it's not what they need. They are clamoring for a '6', a position they don't have (apart from Oriol Romeu), and Bayern fans will tell you the Germany international doesn't operate in that role.

Kimmich has played as a right-back in recent months under Thomas Tuchel, but even when he plays in midfield, he operates in a double pivot. His defensive skills and dominance are not enough to play as a lone defensive midfielder, which is what he would be tasked with at Barcelona.

It speaks volumes that Bayern have been desperately trying to sign a “6”, someone to play alongside Kimmich, for the last 12 months. They tried to acquire Joao Palhinha from Fulham last summer, before running out of time to complete the agreement. The giants of the Bundesliga are aware that Kimmich is not a 6, and yet, Barcelona and Xavi seem to have not worked.

As for the alternatives, Zubimendi suits Barcelona's needs much better, although it is unlikely that he will be signed because Real Sociedade demand his release clause of 60 million euros, which they cannot do not allow single payment. However, if there is even a chance they can, they need to drop their interest in Kimmich and go for him instead.

It remains to be seen if Kimmich is pursued by Barcelona, although it seems that this will be the case. For now, the matter remains open.