Barcelona planning to sign two La Liga superstars if Haaland deal fails

It is no secret at this point that Barcelona are among a host of top clubs in Europe chasing the signing of Erling Haaland ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 21-year-old has become one of the most prolific young goalscorers in the game since joining Borussia Dortmund in 2020 and looks all set to move on this summer, with a €75 million release clause set to come into effect.

And, Barcelona have been credited with a serious interest in the Norwegian, despite the club’s poor financial health. Club president Joan Laporta is prepared to do everything in his power to bring the striker to Camp Nou in the summer.

However, a transfer might well become out of the Blaugrana’s hands if clubs like Manchester City and Real Madrid decide to show off their financial muscle. So, it seems only prudent that the Catalans have backup plans ready in case Haaland does not arrive in the summer.

And, as per SPORT, if Barça’s pursuit of Haaland does not yield the desired result, the club are ready to divert those funds to sign a different top-quality striker, along with an elite centre-back. It is further stated that they have Real Sociedad’s Alexander Isak and Sevilla’s Jules Kounde at the top of their wishlist.

Isak was already close to arriving at Camp Nou last summer but a move did not materialise. However, Barcelona are aware of the financial aspects of the deal and believe they can pull off the transfer.

The Swede, who is going through a rough patch this term, is also in demand and is likely to have swathes of offers in the summer. But, as per the report, his priority is to join the Blaugrana which should help things move along smoothly for the officials.

As for Kounde, the Frenchman is a player that manager Xavi Hernandez admires greatly. The ex-Bordeaux ace has also suffered a dip in form this term, but his stock remains high as ever. Chelsea came close to signing him last year and are prepared to pay his €80 million release clause this time out.

But, it is claimed that Kounde is very much aware of Barcelona’s interest in him and would prefer to make the switch to Camp Nou if an opportunity presented itself.

It promises to be a crucial and eventful summer transfer window for Barcelona. Multiple big signings could be on the cards, with a deal for Cesar Azpilicueta already believed to be done. There could be some significant exits as well, as Xavi looks to stamp his authority on the squad.