Barcelona cannot sign a new player in January due to La Liga FFP rules

Following the departure of Memphis Depay and the retirement of Gerard Pique, Barcelona had assumed that they would have enough financial space to incorporate at least one player in this ongoing January transfer window.

The Catalans had even calculated a fee of up to €3.5 million that can be spent in the market thanks to the departures of Pique and Depay. But Barcelona contacted La Liga to seek clarity on the situation and learn the exact margin of the sum they are allowed to spend.

However, according to Mundo Deportivo, the Catalans have received a negative response from the authorities. It appears the club cannot spend on new signings despite the departures of Depay and Pique, as per the spending rules of La Liga.

The report suggests that Barcelona must get rid of another player if they are to sign someone in January. But the coaching staff believes that option is not viable as Xavi Hernandez is keen on having everyone else available during the second half of the campaign.

There have been speculations over Franck Kessie’s long-term future at Barça, but the Ivorian has opted to remain at Camp Nou and fight for his place in the team, at least until the end of the season. This rules out any potential exit for the midfielder, who was a target for Chelsea.

Hector Bellerin was linked with a move away from Camp Nou as well, but the right-back rejected offers from Premier League clubs and is ready to see out his contract at Barça.

The Catalans, therefore, look set to spend the remainder of the transfer window without making any moves in the market. However, they are actively looking for market opportunities, especially on players whose contracts are expiring at the end of the season.