Barcelona working on ‘affordable’ alternatives for €42 million right-back target

With very little time left in the summer transfer window, Barcelona are looking to complete some last-minute business as Xavi Hernandez seeks further reinforcements to his roster.

Having splashed the cash on improving his attack and centre-back department, the Barça head coach is keen on signing two new full-backs, one each on the right and left sides.

Marcos Alonso and Javi Galan are the choices for the left-back slot, while at right-back, Barcelona have identified Villarreal and Argentina star Juan Foyth as their primary target.

However, the 24-year-old is protected by a €42 million release clause, which reportedly has increased by 30% this week, making his pursuit complicated.

Hence, as reported by journalist Helena Condis, Barcelona see the signing of Foyth as economically unfeasible at this point and are looking at affordable alternatives for the former Tottenham Hotspur defender.

While the update from Helena Condis does not mention any specific names that are being considered, previous reports have stated that Borussia Dortmund’s Thomas Meunier is a target for the Catalan heavyweights, although the Bundesliga club do not intend to sell him.

Former La Masia defender and Arsenal outcast Hector Bellerin is another player on Barcelona’s radar. Given that he is in the final year of his contract at the Emirates and is not part of the plans, he could be available on the cheap this summer.

There have also been links to Rennes’ 30-year-old captain, Hamari Traore, with reports even indicating that the Blaugrana were already working on a €3 million bid for the right-back.

With Sergino Dest not favoured by the manager, it is imperative that Barcelona sign a new right-back as they cannot go through the entire season with Sergi Roberto and makeshift options in Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo playing in the position.

But with not much time left in the transfer window, they must act quickly and try to close a deal at the earliest possible.