La Liga's Fair Play once again presents itself as the main obstacle for Barça ahead of the next transfer market. Despite the desire to strengthen and keep growing, the blaugrana entity finds itself once more with economic restrictions that hinder any movement. The rules imposed by Javier Tebas continue to limit the club's operational capacity.
In this regard, Barça knows that if they want to bring in a high-level player, they must first make room in the wage bill. The scenario is reminiscent of recent markets: planning to the limit, very clear priorities, and a high dependence on departures. It will be a complex summer, where the sports management will have to tread carefully to keep the financial balance without weakening the squad.
The three clearest sales
The only way to open the door to new signings is by lightening the squad. Hansi Flick has already conveyed to the sports management his list of expendable players, footballers who are not in his plans for the next season. This list includes names like Ansu Fati, Andreas Christensen, and Iñaki Peña.
Ansu hasn't managed to recover the level that was expected of him. Meanwhile, Christensen's contract ends in 2026, and his sale would be pure profit, as he arrived for free in 2022. Iñaki Peña, being a backup to Ter Stegen and Szczesny, is also a candidate to leave if an offer comes in.
A major sale is not ruled out
It is also not ruled out that Barça may have to make a significant sale if the situation doesn't improve. One of the names that could enter this equation is Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan center-back has lost prominence this season, falling behind Pau Cubarsí and Íñigo Martínez in the defensive rotation.
Araujo has an active contract with a release clause of €65 million (65 million euros), an amount that could be key to unlocking operations. Although his sale is not decided, the club doesn't rule out taking that route if no margin is achieved through other means. His profile is very appealing in the Premier League and Bayern, and offers won't be lacking.
The club has already secured €8.5M (8.5 million euros)
In any case, Barça has already received a small but welcome piece of good news. Jean-Clair Todibo will remain permanently at West Ham, where he was on loan from Nice, and will leave €8.5 million (8.5 million euros) in the blaugrana coffers. The Catalan club retained 20% of the rights to a future sale of the French center-back, and now that clause will be enforced.
This income is not enough for major moves, but it represents a first step to minimally alleviate the situation. In Barça's current economic context, every euro counts. And while waiting for the big decisions, these moves can make the difference between being able to sign or being left with tied hands again.