Barcelona 'make opening move for Joshua Kimmich'

Barcelona have reportedly made an opening move for Joshua Kimmich, with the midfielder considering leaving Bayern Munich during this summer's transfer window.

The 28-year-old arrived at Allianz Arena from RB Leipzig in 2015, and he has represented the Munich giants on 345 occasions, scoring 40 goals and registering 94 assists in the process.

Kimmich has again been in strong form for Bayern this season, scoring seven goals and registering 11 assists in 45 appearances in all competitions.

The Germany international only has little over two years left to run on his current deal, though, and he is allegedly considering seeking pastures new during the summer market.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Kimmich is attracting the attention of a number of clubs, including Manchester City, but he wants to make the move to Barcelona this year.

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The report claims that Kimmich was unhappy with the dismissal of Julian Nagelsmann as head coach, and he is also said to be uncomfortable with a 'tense atmosphere' inside the Bayern dressing room.

Barcelona boss Xavi is believed to be pushing for the midfielder's signature, while he allegedly has close friends at Camp Nou in the shape of Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Robert Lewandowski.

The Catalan giants are currently in the market for a replacement for Sergio Busquets, with the veteran preparing to leave the club on a free transfer at the end of June.

Bayern have demonstrated in recent years that they are prepared to let key players leave, with Toni Kroos, David Alaba and Lewandowski among those to seek pastures new.

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Kimmich's ability to also play as a right-back is said to make him an even more attractive proposition for Barcelona, although it remains to be seen if the Catalan club can afford him.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has revealed that the La Liga champions want to "strengthen the defence, the midfield, and the attack" during the upcoming market.

Lionel Messi is the club's leading target, as he prepares to leave Paris Saint-Germain on a free transfer, but the Catalan side need to make room in their budget to stand a chance of enjoying a successful summer.

Man City would likely be able to place a larger offer on the table for Kimmich than Barcelona, with the Citizens potentially making a move if Ilkay Gundogan does not renew his contract.

However, the German is believed to favour a move to Camp Nou if he does end his association with the Bundesliga champions in the upcoming market.