Joan Laporta is determined to mark a turning point in next summer's transfer market. With the Barça presidential elections just a year away, the leader knows he needs to strengthen the team and restore excitement to the fans. The economic situation, although still delicate, has progressively improved, which opens the door to more ambitious moves in the market.
One of the key factors in this new scenario is the agreement with Nike. The renewal of the contract with the American multinational, along with the possible sale of assets and the reduction of the wage bill, will allow Barça to tackle high-level signings. After several summers marked by financial restrictions, the board believes that the time has come to compete again with Europe's big clubs in the transfer market.
The Forward Line Is the Great Priority
In sports planning, Barça is clear that the forward line is the area that most urgently needs reinforcement. Lewandowski will remain the offensive reference next season, but the club is aware that the Pole can no longer play every minute. At 36 years old, his performance is still high, but his cycle at the club is gradually coming to an end.
Therefore, the sports management wants to incorporate a forward who can alternate with Lewandowski and eventually take on the starting role. The club wants to bring in an striker who can give the Pole a rest but also has the talent to lead the blaugrana attack in the coming years. They are looking for a physical profile, with scoring ability and the capacity to play in the team's scheme without depending on Lewandowski.
Laporta Wants the First Signing to Be This Forward
According to 'El Nacional', the forward closest to arriving is Viktor Gyökeres. The Swedish striker is having a spectacular season at Sporting de Portugal and has attracted the interest of several European teams. His scoring ability, physical power, and ease of associating with his teammates make him an ideal candidate to strengthen the culé attack.
The problem is his price. His price is around 100M euros, but Barça believes they could close the signing for about 70M. The club's intention is to negotiate with Sporting to lower the price and, if necessary, include players in the operation.
The Alexander Isak Option, Very Utopian
Despite Gyökeres, the forward that Barça likes the most is Alexander Isak. The Swedish forward from Newcastle is considered a world-class footballer and would fit perfectly into the blaugrana play style. His speed, technique, and ability to move in the area make him a very attractive option.
However, the big problem with Isak is also his price and to a greater extent. Newcastle is not willing to sell him for less than 150M euros. At Barça, they know that unless there are major sales, Isak's arrival is very complicated.