Barcelona identify Goncalo Guedes as replacement for Memphis Depay

Barcelona have identified Wolverhampton Wanderers winger Goncalo Guedes as a replacement for Memphis Depay, according to Diario AS.

Depay is on the verge of a move to Atletico Madrid after reportedly reaching an agreement with the Spanish capital club.

Xavi has handpicked Guedes as an ideal option to strengthen the attack. The Blaugrana manager has also held talks with the Portuguese forward to explain the club’s project.

Guedes is represented by superagent Jorge Mendes, with whom Barca share a great relationship over a long period.

The Portuguese forward was shot to prominence during his impressive stint with Valencia before moving to Molineux Stadium last summer, joining the Wolves side dominated by a Portuguese contingent.

However, Gudedes has struggled for form and regular minutes this season, finding the net only once in 18 appearances.

Wolves have put the former Los Che star for sale just six months after his signing as he seems to be not in the plans of new manager Julen Lopetegui.

With a contract running until 2027, Wolves would demand a significant fee to part ways with Guedes.

Currently restrained by FFP regulations, Barca are exploring a six-month loan for the Portuguese star with no buy option, similar to the transfer operation of Adama Traore last year.

Barca have been linked with Youssoufa Moukoko, Yannick Carrasco and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, but all the options are now ruled out.

Moukoko is reportedly closing on a move to Newcastle United, while Atletico have made it clear that Carrasco is not for sale.

As far as Aubameyang is concerned, La Liga rules don’t allow Barca to re-sign him in January.

Guedes will be a vital addition to Barca, who are lacking wingers on the left flank. Xavi has been relying on Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati and Gavi.