Barça is clear that this summer it needs to strengthen the forward line with a top-level signing. Joan Laporta wants to make an effort to bring in an striker who makes a difference and complements Hansi Flick's project. That's why Deco is already working on several options and has names like Luis Díaz, Rafael Leão, Nico Williams, Alexander Isak, and Viktor Gyökeres on his list.
However, to be able to tackle this major signing, Barça will have to juggle its finances. The culer financial situation remains delicate and to bring in an offensive star, it is essential to generate income and comply with La Liga's 1:1 rule. This means that before spending money on new additions, Barça must balance the scales with significant departures.
Barça Has to Comply with the 1:1 Rule
The club doesn't want to repeat past mistakes where rushed signings and poorly managed sales ended up mortgaging the club. In this market, the board knows it needs to succeed both in acquisitions and departures. Although the names of Ansu Fati and Andreas Christensen are the main candidates to leave the team, these operations might not be enough to comply with the rule.
Therefore, Barça will have to consider other sales that allow it to generate immediate income and relieve the wage bill. Thus, other players in the squad could also be on the way out if an attractive offer arrives.
Inter Miami of Messi and Suárez Enters the Scene
Amid these needs, an unexpected option has appeared: Inter Miami of Leo Messi has shown interest in a Barça player. As happened with Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Suárez, the American club is exploring the possibility of adding another blaugrana player to its squad.
The MLS team, led by David Beckham, continues to seek European-level players to strengthen its project, and Messi and Suárez have taken an active role in the negotiations. Their influence has been key in bringing several stars to American soccer, and everything points to them trying to convince another former teammate.
Inter Miami's Target at Barça
The player Messi and Suárez have identified as their main target for Inter Miami is none other than Ronald Araújo. The Uruguayan center-back has a contract until 2031, but his release clause of 65 million makes him accessible for any club. The blaugrana board knows that his sale would be a significant sporting blow, but economically it would represent a great cash injection.
However, despite Suárez and Messi's insistence, it seems unlikely that Araújo will end up in MLS this summer. The Uruguayan defender is essential for Flick and still has ambitions in European soccer. Teams like Bayern Munich have shown interest in him, but his departure would only occur if the player requests it.