Barcelona sports staff identify two positions as utmost priority for the summer

Following Mateu Alemany’s decision to remain at Barcelona, the Spaniard has already kickstarted the club’s transfer plans for the season ahead, with the assistance of his right-hand man, Deco.

According to Diario SPORT, the board has identified certain problem areas within the squad. They have particularly prioritised the signing of a new midfielder ahead of the new season, along with a striker that can complement Robert Lewandowski.

The board believes Barça have postponed the idea of signing a new midfielder for too long. With Sergio Busquets leaving the club at the end of the season, the club desperately require a new face in the number six slot.

To that end, Barcelona could step up the efforts to sign the likes of Sofyan Amrabat, Martin Zubimendi, Ruben Neves or even Joshua Kimmich. They may have to do some ‘financial engineering’ in order to sign either of these four stars.

As for the striker slot, Barcelona are satisfied with the performances of Lewandowski. The Pole has netted 31 goals in all competitions so far. But there have been times when his performances dropped. And on those occasions, the club simply did not have anyone to fill the gap.

Barcelona’s priority is to sign a long-term alternative such as Vitor Roque. But if the Brazilian international comes out to be too expensive, the club could explore a move for a low-cost option such as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Finally, the Barcelona board has also identified the right-back position as a potential weakness. However, signing a right-back will only come as a priority once the club complete the signing of a new striker and a midfielder.

Otherwise, there is a substantial chance Barça could continue to rely on the versatility of Ronald Araujo, Sergi Robert and Jules Kounde next season, with Julian Araujo as an alternative.