Barça hasn't been able to fulfill the European dream this season, after falling in the Champions League semifinals against Inter Milan. The team, which had placed many hopes on conquering Europe, has seen its aspirations thwarted by a more pragmatic Italian side. However, the European blow hasn't diminished their aspirations in La Liga, where they have everything in their favor.
In fact, Barça arrives as the leader in the final stretch of La Liga, with a four-point advantage over Real Madrid. This situation puts all eyes on the Clásico next Sunday, a duel that could decide the fate of the championship. A victory for the culés would put the title within reach, while a win for the blancos would reopen the fight.
Deco is already working in the market
Meanwhile, as the battle is fought on the field, Barça's offices are already working toward the next transfer market. The sports management believes that the team needs to sign players to strengthen some positions. Specifically, with an attacking player who can complement what is already there and a right-back who allows Jules Koundé to rotate.
In attack, players who can coexist with Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal, offering alternatives in high-demand matches. As for the right-back, they intend to sign a player who competes with the French full-back and offers different alternatives.
There will be sales and some might surprise
But for arrivals to happen, the club knows they will have to sell. Reducing the wage bill is a priority to be able to register new signings. Therefore, they have already begun to evaluate which players could leave this summer.
Among the possible sacrifices, one of them could be Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan center-back has a release clause of only 65 million this summer. Although Barça's intention isn't to sell him, there are important clubs interested in him, and if such an offer is received, the sports management will be forced to sell.
Offers are accepted for an untouchable
But Araujo wouldn't be the only surprise, as, according to "El Nacional," Barça would also be open to listening to offers for Ter Stegen. The German goalkeeper, captain, and locker room leader, has returned from a complicated injury and is already 33 years old. In this sense, the entity considers that it might be the ideal time for a change of cycle in the goalkeeping position.
The club is considering the possibility of betting on a younger profile, with projection and a lower wage burden. One of the names strongly mentioned is Joan García, Espanyol's goalkeeper, whose progression hasn't gone unnoticed. The operation won't be easy or free of controversy, but Barça knows it needs to make decisions to ensure the future.