Barcelona news roundup: 23rd December 2021 – Umtiti situation, Werner loan, Dest destinations, and more

Barcelona preparing to terminate defender’s contract who refuses to leave
Barcelona are, apparently, going to terminate Samuel Umtiti’s contract. The Frenchman has refused to leave, according to reports, and with little to no wiggle room in the wage bill, Barça might have to resort to unilateral termination.

Barcelona and Arsenal in talks for swap deal involving Philippe Coutinho
Philippe Coutinho is another player that is perpetually linked with an exit from Barcelona. However, it does not seem to come to fruition. A series of outlets today, however, reported that the Brazilian could be swapped for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, with Arsenal in agreement of the same. Make sure to take it with a pinch of salt, though.

Chelsea ready to offer €30 million for Barcelona fullback
An English media special: Chelsea are ready to shell out €30 million for Sergino Dest. Why? Who knows why Chelsea do anything, really? They have Reece James in the same position, Ben Chilwell on the left, and Callum Hudson-Odoi can cover both roles. Oh well.

Barcelona looking to secure loan move for Chelsea striker
Straight out of London, again. This time suggesting that Barcelona — more specificially Xavi — wants Timo Werner at the club. He’s not seen the green of the grass much this season, and would be open to a move, apparently. Very quick, versatile, great off the ball movement…but with poor finishing; Werner really gives fans a lot to think about.

“They’re negotiating, it’s close”: Guardiola provides update on Ferran Torres to Barcelona
With Ferran Torres’ transfer to Barcelona moving closer, Pep Guardiola provided a teasing update in his pre-game presser. While he tried not to act as a spokesperson, he did say that the move is “close”. He also said that he wanted the Spaniard to be happy, even if it meant leaving Man City. What a brilliant statement.

Barcelona have won the xG battle in every game under Xavi
There has been noticeable improvements under Xavi already, and the numbers reflect the same. In fact, a closer look at the xG (expected goals) reveals the same. Barcelona have out-created their opponents in each league game since the former-midfielder took over. While that has not always resulted in wins – like against Sevilla -, it is a sign of a things to come.

Manchester City defender refuses Barcelona’s summer proposal
We wrap our roundup with an El Nacional special. The report says that Barcelona, led by Xavi, had tried to contact Aymeric Laporte over a summer move seeing his competition rise in the form of John Stones. The former Athletic Club man, though, rejected the proposal, hoping to gain back his prominence in the team.