After a long pursuit of a holding midfielder, Barcelona can now close the deal as Nil Sola, via Jijantes (h/t Carpetas FCB), reports that the signing of Oriol Romeu from Girona has been closed. In fɑct, an official announcement of the same could be made as early as Monday.

Barca have been looking for a defensive midfielder throughout the summer after Sergio Busquets confirmed his departure. Targets like Marcelo Brozovic, Joshua Kimmich, and Martin Zubimendi were considered and eliminated for one reason or another.

In the end, the Blaugrana chose Romeu as their preferred choice because the 31-year-old fits the club’s current economic realities and understands Barça’s philosophy, having worked his way through the ranks at La Masia and made a few appearances for the team also.

Negotiations with Granada have been going on for some time and finally reached a breakthrough last night, with reports suggesting that Barcelona would sign Romeu for €5m plus variables. and loaned Granada Pablo Torre.

Now, based on that, Nil Sola is reporting that the deal is completely sealed and could be officially announced next Monday.

It’s a huge boost for coach Xavi Hernandez, who has been intent on signing the pivotal midfielder before the team flies to the United States for a pre-season tour.

Romeu’s proven experience and experience, coupled with his familiarity with Barça’s ideologies, should help him adapt quite quickly to the team.

Even then, the 31-year-old will need time to adjust to his new teammates and pre-season friendlies against Juventus, Arsenal, Real Madrid, and AC Milan will help him get there.

While not the most fashionable signing, Romeu will add more steel to Barcelona’s midfield and could serve as a good short-term fix until Barcelona can secure a mainstay. younger by a year or two.