Transfer chaos: Four players properly linked to Barcelona for the January window

Joan Laporta took over a broken club in 2003 and guided it to ultimate success with the help of the legendary Johann Cruyff. With the right manager to garner the most out of their mega-talented squad, trophies were bound to follow.

The onus is now Laporta to repeat the success of his previous tenure. He was elected president of the club in March, taking over a similar, misguided team.

Unfortunately, he does not have the same talent at his disposal now. The squad has multiple holes and probably not enough money to fix them. The team is unable to score goals and lacks the grit to hold on to a lead when they do score.

The media has been on their toes, milking the most out of Barcelona’s situation. The club is linked to every other player under the sun, and it is becoming increasingly difficult to separate fact from fiction.

As such, Barça Universal rewinds the clock for a transfer market summary ahead of the winter transfer window and tell you the four players that have been most strongly linked with the garnet and blue. Spoiler alert: all of them are attackers.

1. Edinson Cavani: Now 34, Edinson Cavani has not displayed signs of stopping any time soon. That is, when he plays. He still boasts of excellent off-the-ball movement, top-class finishing, and unparalleled work ethic on the pitch. All of these are qualities Xavi desires in his Barcelona.

For reference: Barcelona set to sign veteran Man United striker, contract details revealed

Without a proper, fit striker at the help, Barça have had problems converting chances into goals. The Uruguayan has been linked with a winter transfer to the Catalan capital and might be given an 18-month contract.

2. Ferran Torres: Perhaps the most talked-about player in the context of Barcelona, Ferran Torres appears to be closest to a switch. The Manchester City winger is fighting several other talented forwards for a place under Pep Guardiola and therefore seeks solace at Barça.

For reference: Barcelona and Manchester City reach agreement for the transfer of winger

Unlike Cavani, though, Torres will not come cheap. Barça will have to, reportedly, pay €50 million in transfer fees and €5 million in variables. While rumours say that the deal is done, fans might want to hold their horses given the club’s financial situation.

3. Julian Alvarez: Also a forward, Julian Alvarez is probably the left-field option for Barcelona. He plays as a second striker for River Plate and finished the season as their top-scorer en route to the league title.

For reference: Barcelona ready to start negotiations for Argentine gem

With one year left on his contract, Joan Laporta and co. are looking to snatch up the Argentine this January. He will not cost a lot, but Barça should probably think twice before repeating the mistakes made while signing Antoine Griezmann and Philippe Coutinho.

4. Alexis Sanchez: The most recent addition to the getting-the-gang-back-together transfer party, Alexis Sanchez is stuck in limbo at Inter Milan. He has not seen the green of the grass enough with Lautaro Martinez, Edin Dzeko, and Joaquin Correa ahead of him the pecking order.

For reference: Barça close to re-signing former forward, green-light from Xavi awaited

However, he comes up as a shock transfer target for Barcelona, who are in desperate need of forwards. Alexis is an impressive finisher, and has a tremendous work-rate. The only question is, can he come close to replicating his time with the club?