FC Barcelona continues with its planning for the next season. The blaugrana board is clear that it is necessary to strengthen several key positions, especially in defense and attack. However, Barça is not the only team looking to improve its squad, as PSG under Luis Enrique also has ambitious plans for the transfer market.
The Spanish coach, who has led the Parisian team to establish itself as one of the strongest teams in Europe, wants a top-level reinforcement for his defense. To Barça's misfortune, it seems he has taken the lead in the race for a player who interested both clubs.
PSG Enters Barça's Plans
Luis Enrique has asked PSG's board for several key reinforcements for the next season. He wants an even more competitive and experienced team, especially in the backline, where he has identified an unbeatable market opportunity.
The player in question finishes his contract this summer and will be free, making him a highly desired piece. Both Barça and PSG have closely followed his situation, aware that he could greatly improve their respective defenses.
In Camp Nou offices, they were very excited about his possible signing, but in recent days everything has changed.
Luis Enrique Strikes: PSG, Favorite in the Race
The footballer in question has been linked with both Barça and PSG. The possibility of signing him without paying a transfer fee made him even more attractive.
However, the last week has been key. Cameras have captured the player talking with Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, PSG's president, which has set off all the alarms in Barcelona.
At the blaugrana club, they still dream of signing him, but their financial situation seriously complicates the operation. PSG's financial offer is much higher, and Luis Enrique has played a decisive role in his decision.
The player in question is Virgil van Dijk, the Liverpool center-back whose contract ends this summer. For months, Barça has tried to entice him, but it finally seems that his destination will be Paris.
Luis Enrique has convinced him that at PSG he will have a key role. Meanwhile, at Barça, the economic difficulties and the lack of a clear offer have been decisive.
Barça thus loses a great market opportunity, while PSG strengthens with one of the best center-backs in the world without paying a single euro. A hard blow for Joan Laporta and Deco, who will now have to look for new alternatives for the defense.