Barça's preparing the winter transfer market with the intention of improving the team for the second part of the season. The improvement in the club's economy, thanks to reaching 1:1 in Fair Play, has given Barça some leeway to operate in the market, and movements are expected.
In this regard, a key player in the market seems to be Jorge Mendes, the famous Portuguese soccer agent, who has a close relationship with Joan Laporta. The friendship between them has opened the doors to a series of negotiations that could benefit the club.
In this regard, Barça is expected to make significant moves, and Jorge Mendes could be crucial in facilitating some of the most relevant operations. The goal is not only to sign players who bring quality but also to balance the team, lighten the wage bill, and generate income through sales. The January market will be crucial for the club's immediate future, and Mendes's relationships could make the difference in several key negotiations.
Jorge Mendes Works for Barça in the Exciting Transfer
The major operation in which Jorge Mendes will play a prominent role is the transfer of Rafa Leão, who has become Barça's top priority for this market. Although his market value is set at 100 million, Rafa Leão's agent is pushing for the transfer to be made for a lower amount. The Catalan club has been closely following the forward for some time, and his profile fits perfectly with the team's offensive needs.
Barça is looking for an striker capable of complementing Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski, and Rafael Leão wouldn't only be that but also significant competition. Although Leão's transfer doesn't seem easy, Mendes's relationship with Laporta could be key to achieving a reduction in the stipulated price. Milan, although initially reluctant to sell their star, could be pressured to yield if Barça manages to offer attractive conditions for both parties.
This way, the club could secure one of the most desired transfers in the market and make a statement. Despite other options like Luis Díaz, the favorite for Barça remains Leão, and everything indicates that his transfer will be the major operation in January.
The Agent Also Closes a Major Sale Impacting Barça
Besides transfers, Jorge Mendes is also close to closing a sale that will benefit Barça economically. It's about Francisco Trincão, the Portuguese winger currently playing for Sporting Lisbon, but who belonged to Barça. The player is in negotiations to be transferred to Milan for about 25 million, an operation that will benefit the Catalan club.
Since Barça has an agreement with Sporting to receive a percentage of the transfer, the club will benefit from the sale with approximately 50% of the final amount. That is, about 12.5 million euros, plus the 10 they already received when they sold him to Sporting. An income that is very well received by Barça, as it will help alleviate the club's finances and fund future operations.
The sale of Trincão is also a reflection of the club's strategy to balance the team, free up salary space, and generate income. This operation, along with other possible moves, will allow Barça to face the transfers they want with greater solvency.