Barcelona Want To Reinforce Three Position, Have Identified Primary Targets And Alternatives
Heading into the summer transfer window, Barcelona will once again be under a certain amount of pressure due to La Liga’s Financial Fair Play rules that could limit their spending power in the market.
But, Joan Laporta & co. have already begun laying out plans for the next transfer window as they look to further equip manager Xavi Hernandez with the tools needed for him to take Barcelona back to the top.
To that, journalist Javi Miguel is reporting that Barça have identified three positions that need reinforcements in the summer. The Catalans wish to bring in a new right-back, a holding midfielder, and a striker before the next campaign kicks off.
The journalist further adds that Barcelona have already chalked down the names of their primary targets for each of those positions, while also identifying backup options in case they fail with their Plan A.
As per the report, Juan Foyth of Villarreal is the primary target at right-back with Benjamin Pavard of Bayern Munich seen as a Plan B.
When it comes to the defensive midfield role, Xavi Hernandez & co. continue to prioritise a move for Martin Zubimendi, despite his €60 million release clause. In case Barcelona are unable to sign the Real Sociedad ace, Fiorentina ace Sofyan Amrabat is seen as the alternative.
As for the centre-forward slot, Barcelona have set their sights firmly on Brazilian teenager Vitor Roque of Athletico Paranaense. The 17-year-old, who recently won the South American U-20 Championship with Brazil, could cost €30 million plus variables.
While Barça are confident of signing Roque, they have their eyes on Atletico Madrid forward Yannick Carrasco as an alternative to strengthen the frontline, with the club having a €20 million purchase option for the Belgian.
Javi Miguel also reports that with incomings, there are bound to be exits as well, given the Fair Play problems. But Xavi and Laporta are clear on the point that none of the starters or regulars will be allowed to leave despite recent speculations in some sections of the media.
