Barcelona identify two key positions that need reinforcing for next summer – report

Journalist Javier Miguel has reported via Culemania that Barcelona have identified two important positions that need reinforcing for the next season and these are a pivot midfielder as well as a left winger.

Given the condition at hand, Barcelona are expected to be quiet during the January transfer market. The message has been conveyed by club president Joan Laporta to manager Xavi.

In this context, quiet does not mean little business, but rather, they are expected to go without signing any player due to the ongoing battle with finances.

Now, Barcelona will indeed keep an eye on market movements, but an official move is highly unlikely.

Pivot has been a problem

It’s no secret that Sergio Busquets’ departure has left a huge void in the centre at Barcelona. Ever since his exit, the team has looked for a replacement and although they do have Oriol Romeu covering the position, he is not a long-term solution.

There are a few names such as Wilfred Ndidi, Gabriel Moscardo, and even Martin Zubimendi that have made it to Barcelona’s list.

However, the team needs to lay down a plan to analyse how far they can stretch their budget to sign a certain player.

Given the market situation and Barcelona’s finances, expect the window to be a harsh mistress.

Why a left-winger?

The answer to this question is largely dependent on Joao Felix’s performance and his future at the club.

After a stunning start to his new life in Catalonia, the Portuguese made the left wing his own, but his effect has now started to fade so much so that he is without a goal in his last 10 outings.

In any way, Barcelona have assured the player that he will be retained as they believe the player will regain his form once everyone around him gains momentum.

At the same time, the reality is that Barcelona need to be prepared for the worst since the chances of retaining the Portuguese are exactly similar to losing him.

This is why the sports scene is in a state of uncertainty, and there’s a prevailing sense that they need to place their bets on players with different profiles for the upcoming season.