Barcelona want to strengthen their squad this summer by bringing in a defender or a striker but will have to sell a key player for that to happen, according to a new update from ESPN.
The report says that Barca “must raise money through the departure of important players such as Ferran Torres, Jules Koundé or even Raphinha to be able to re-invest in the new signings Hansi Flick has requested this summer.”
Barcelona are said to be aiming “to raise around €100 million ($118m)” through players sales as
they want to freshen up the squad and try to win the Champions League next season.
Some player sales already appear to be on the cards, such as out-of-favor midfielder Marc Casado and Monaco loanee Ansu Fati, but more are needed if Barca want to spend big on the likes of Alessandro Bastoni and Julian Alvarez.
Ferran’s name has cropped up as he’s out of contract next year, while ESPN say that Kounde could be sold because of “inconsistent form” and interest from Premier League clubs. Liverpool have been rumored to be keen on the Frenchman.
Raphinha’s name is also mentioned once again and his situation is described as “complex.” Barca don’t want to let him go as he’s vital to the team but the word is they may be unable refuse a huge offer for a player who turns 30 later this year.
Interestingly, ESPN claim that Raphinha “is receptive to leaving if it helps rebuild the squad in the short-to-medium-term.”
Thoughts?
