Updates on Thiago’s connections to Barcelona are given by Fabrizio Romano.
The 32-year-old playmaker is still recovering from hip surgery that he underwent at the end of the previous season, therefore he hasn’t played for Liverpool in 2023–2024.
The midfield player was supposed to participate in preseason, but a number of setbacks have made him miss more time than planned. Jurgen Klopp recently stated that it’s likely the number six won’t be able to play until the new year.
Over Thiago’s three and a half years at Anfield, he has struggled with injuries; the former star of Bayern Munich last started a game in February’s 3-0 loss to Wolves.
Given his age, high salary, and track record of availability, it seems unlikely that Thiago’s stay on Merseyside will be extended as he enters the final year of his contract.
According to reports in Spain, Barcelona is reportedly considering a move for their former academy graduate, Gavi, a rising midfield talent.
Romano discussed the prospect of Thiago rejoining the team where he played for eight years and made 101 first-team appearances in his Daily Briefing for CaughtOffside.
“I’ve received some questions from fans regarding Thiago Alcantara stories and his unexpected possible return to Barcelona in January,” he stated. Of course, Gavi’s lengthy injury has left Barça shorthanded in the midfield, but it’s too soon to tell who might replace him or even if they will.
As of now, I’m not aware of any formal discussions between Thiago and Barca. As I previously stated, Barca’s top priority is to sign Vitor Roque before making any decisions regarding their midfield options. As of right now, nothing has changed, and there are no firm plans for acting to replace Gavi.
It’s important to keep in mind that Thiago turned down offers from Saudi clubs in July because he preferred to remain at Liverpool. His circumstances haven’t changed since then, as far as I know.
Although no deal happened, Anfield Watch earlier in the summer stated that Liverpool was considering offers for Thiago, whose wages of £200k per week are among the highest in the team.