Barcelona continues working on planning their squad for the next season and has set their sights on a top-tier forward. However, the club's economic problems mean that any major operation requires ingenuity and negotiation.
In this context, the conversations have taken an unexpected turn and the blaugrana board has found a solution that could benefit all parties. According to sources close to the club, Barça is willing to include Ferran Torres in a swap deal to acquire a striker.
The Forward Desired by Laporta and Flick
FC Barcelona needs a center forward who can lead the attack in the coming years. There are several options in the market, but one of the most favored by the club is a player who has proven to be a reference in the Premier League.
With 19 goals and 5 assists in 28 matches this season, he has established himself as one of the most effective strikers in Europe. His combination of speed, power and finishing makes him an ideal profile for Barça.
However, his high price is the main obstacle. In 2022, his club paid nearly 70 million euros for his signing. Currently, his value exceeds 100 million, a figure that Barça can't afford in a direct purchase.
A Swap Deal on the Horizon
Faced with the impossibility of paying a multimillion-dollar transfer, the Culé board has sought alternatives. Initially, Newcastle proposed the option of a swap with Raphinha, as the English team has long been interested in the Brazilian.
Barça's winger has had a great season, with 23 goals and 14 assists in 34 matches, becoming one of the team's most decisive players. However, Hansi Flick has made it clear that Raphinha is non-transferable. Additionally, the player himself has expressed his desire to stay at Camp Nou.
With this option ruled out, Barça has put forward a new proposal that could satisfy both parties.
Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati Enter the Equation
Faced with the refusal to include Raphinha, FC Barcelona has proposed a swap with Ferran Torres and the possibility of including Ansu Fati in the deal.
Both players have talent and potential, but they have not managed to establish themselves as undisputed starters in Flick's team. Therefore, Barça considers that they could be key pieces in the negotiation to bring in a top-tier forward.
Ferran Torres, who arrived from Manchester City, has had standout performances, but his inconsistency and strong competition have limited his prominence. Meanwhile, Ansu Fati continues to fight to regain his best form after injuries that have hindered his progress.
Newcastle Studies the Proposal
Newcastle United has not yet given a definitive response to Barça's new proposal for Alexander Isak. But the interest in Ferran Torres and Ansu Fati could make the operation progress in the coming weeks.
For the English team, strengthening their squad with two quality offensive players could be an attractive alternative, especially if Barça agrees to include some additional incentive in the negotiation.
Meanwhile, at Camp Nou they remain confident that this strategy will allow them to secure a reliable '9' without making a large outlay. The next transfer window will be key to determining if this move becomes a reality.