Barcelona faces striker search challenges and potential player departures
Barcelona is navigating a complex transfer period, marked by difficulties in securing a new striker and ongoing discussions regarding several current players. The club’s pursuit of key targets has encountered setbacks, while decisions on player departures are also taking shape as the transfer window progresses.
The search for a replacement for Robert Lewandowski has proven challenging for Barcelona. Their primary target, Julián Álvarez, appears increasingly unattainable, with Atlético Madrid reportedly unwilling to sell the player. This situation has led Barcelona to explore other options.
An alternative option for Barcelona, Eli Junior Kroupi, is also no longer viable. Kroupi recently underwent surgery, which is expected to sideline him for several months. Additionally, reports indicate that Bournemouth has made it clear they will not sell Kroupi to Barcelona, effectively closing this avenue for the club.
With both Álvarez and Kroupi proving difficult to acquire, Barcelona is reportedly considering other forwards. Names such as Darwin Núñez, Dusan Vlahovic, and Victor Osimhen have been linked with the club. Another prospect, Fisnik Asllani from Hoffenheim, has reportedly paused a potential move to RB Leipzig, awaiting a possible transfer to Camp Nou.
Squad Adjustments and Departures
Beyond the striker position, Barcelona is also addressing several other squad issues. Sporting director Deco is working to finalise the squad, with the transfer window open until 31 August. This period is considered crucial for resolving outstanding deals, including both arrivals and departures.
According to reports, half of Barcelona‘s first team is currently preparing for the season in England, with World Cup players absent. Coach Hansi Flick is evaluating youth academy prospects during this time. The club’s efforts extend to managing the futures of several players who have received offers from other clubs.
Five players in particular are reportedly at risk of leaving Barcelona: Alejandro Balde, Ronald Araújo, Marc Casadó, Marc-André ter Stegen, and Roony Bardghji. The situations of these players could influence further transfer activity before the window closes.
The loan move of German goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen to Ajax was reportedly close to completion recently. The outcome of this potential transfer will determine whether Barcelona pursues a new goalkeeper or promotes one of the young goalkeepers currently being coached by Flick.
Marc Casadó, who reportedly felt he had fallen in the pecking order among Flick‘s midfielders last season, is another player whose future is uncertain. His situation could be resolved during or immediately after the pre-season camp, as Flick looks to streamline the squad.
Alejandro Balde is in a similar position, particularly with the anticipated permanent return of Cancelo after the pre-season camp. Flick also has other options like Gerard Martín, who can play as a centre-back or full-back, and Joffre, ahead of Balde.
Ronald Araújo‘s situation is described as more complex. He is under contract until 2031 and has consistently expressed his desire to remain with the club. Despite previous interest from other clubs, he is currently unwilling to leave Barcelona.
The departure of Roony Bardghji, however, is widely considered a done deal, especially following the signing of Karim Adeyemi. The only remaining question regarding Bardghji is whether he will leave on loan or on a permanent transfer with a buy-back option.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain has reportedly contacted Ferran Torres‘ representatives to discuss a potential move to the French capital. Torres is entering the final year of his contract in summer 2027, which could make him a more affordable option for PSG. When asked about these rumours, Joan Laporta stated that Torres is currently a Barcelona player and is performing well.
Transfer Priorities and Outlook
The club’s immediate priority remains securing a striker. The need for a central defender, however, is contingent on factors such as Araújo‘s potential departure or Flick‘s decision regarding Álvaro Cortés, similar to the opportunity given to Gerard Martín.
As the transfer window progresses, Barcelona faces the challenge of concluding these various negotiations. The club’s ability to secure new signings and manage player departures will be key in shaping the squad for the upcoming season, with the transfer window closing on 31 August.
The club’s efforts to bring in reinforcements at striker have been frustrated on multiple fronts, while simultaneously dealing with interest from other clubs in their existing attacking talent. The coming weeks will be crucial for Joan Laporta and the club’s leadership to navigate these complex transfer sagas.
Source: barcablaugranes.com
Priya Menon 