Barcelona face the final days of the transfer window needing to balance their books before registering new players. The sporting management, led by Joan Laporta and Deco, are clear that significant departures must come first. Only then will they be able to make room in the wage bill for last-minute signings.
Oriol Romeu's case has been on the table for weeks and his departure seems imminent. The midfielder isn't part of Hansi Flick's plans, who has already informed the player of the situation. Several Spanish clubs have shown interest and his final destination could be decided in the coming hours.
The same is true for Iñaki Peña, whose future at the club is practically sealed due to a lack of opportunities. The goalkeeper needs playing time and at Barça, they're aware he won't get it between the posts. They're negotiating a departure that could be solved as a loan or even a transfer with a buy-back option.
Surprising offers on the way out
In addition to these obvious cases, an unexpected interest has emerged that could shape the outcome of the window. In England and Spain, several teams have inquired about Marc Casadó. His leadership and consistency make him a strategic signing for growth.
The figure being discussed is around €30 million, a sum that's hard to turn down. Barça view this option positively because it would free up space and create room for new additions. Although Flick considers him important, he understands there's an excess of players in his position.
The deal isn't closed yet, but the player is already aware of the situation. He has a valid contract and trust in the project, but he also understands he needs minutes at the highest level. That's why this sale is being seriously considered, which would be one of the most surprising of the summer.
Flick expects a reliable reinforcement
In parallel with these negotiations, the German coach has requested an effort to strengthen specific areas of the field. He knows that with the season already underway, he needs high-level alternatives to face the three major competitions. The demands are at their highest and injuries could further complicate the rotation.
Meetings between Deco and Flick have been constant in recent days to define the moves. They're seeking a balance between sporting needs and the financial possibility of fitting in last-minute signings. Every departure that occurs will bring the possibility of adding a new face to the squad closer.
The coach has made it clear he wants footballers who can make an immediate impact and not just gambles. The blaugrana club can't fail with this addition because it would be the last major move of the window. That's why they're studying all available profiles that could fill gaps in the starting line-up.
Gerard Romero reveals the key
In this context, Gerard Romero has revealed relevant information about Barça's plans for the closing days. In his most recent live broadcast, he explained that the departure of a key footballer would have changed the scenario. The exit of an experienced defender opens a spot that the sporting management want to fill urgently.
Romero detailed that the priority now is to sign a center-back, something Flick has openly supported. No specific names have been leaked from the club, but the latest reports point to several candidates in Europe. Among them are proven profiles like Bastoni or the young center-back Gerónimo Espina from Atlético.
The truth is that the Barça fans are waiting with anticipation to find out who the last signing will be. Barça want to close the window with a statement move, and everything suggests they'll do so by strengthening the defense. Iñigo Martínez's departure has left a void they now intend to fill with a world-class center-back.