The name of Fisnik Asllani is firmly underlined in the offices of Europe’s top clubs. It’s no secret that FC Barcelona are closely following the promising Hoffenheim striker, who is enjoying a fine season with impressive numbers.
The 23-year-old forward has ten goals and nine assists from 30 appearances across all competitions this season for the German outfit.
Barcelona, in their search for a new striker heading into the summer, are keeping a close eye on Asllani, who has previously admitted his admiration for the Catalans.
At the same time, the Kosovan international is also being courted by several Premier League clubs, although Barça might have another advantage in the race.
Asllani’s Champions League dream
Aware of all the noise surrounding his future, the Kosovan forward broke his silence in an exclusive interview with Sky Sport Germany (h/t SPORT).
Asked directly about his future and his desire to play in the UEFA Champions League, Asllani did not hesitate. The Kosovo international spoke openly and showed his ambition.
Asllani dreams of playing in the UCL. (Photo by Neil Baynes/Getty Images)
“Of course, the Champions League is every footballer’s dream. I think it’s a wonderful feeling to play in it. I get goosebumps just watching it on TV and hearing the anthem,” he said.
He went further and admitted it is almost a lifelong goal, saying: “I always watch the Champions League with my dad, so playing in it one day is a big goal for me. It’s something I’ve been dreaming of since I was a little boy.”
These statements, from a Barça perspective, can be seen as a clear nod towards a club that regularly offers that elite European stage, which they do.
Asllani’s comments come just weeks after rumours about a move to Barcelona intensified. It is worth recalling that his agent, Ayman Dahmani, had already confirmed contacts with the Blaugrana over a move.
Barça’s sporting department sees him as an ideal profile – mobile, technically strong, and capable of linking play – to gradually take over the attacking responsibility from Robert Lewandowski.
However, competition will be fierce: Premier League giants like Chelsea and Tottenham, as well as German champions Bayern Munich, are also pushing for a player whose release clause is believed to be between €25 and €29 million.
