With still a little over two weeks left before the summer transfer window closes, Mundo Deportivo is reporting that Barcelona leaders held a meeting today in order to discuss further plans to strengthen the squad.
Barça president Joan Laporta, vice-president Rafa Yuste, and director of football Mateu Alemany were involved in the meeting that took place at the club’s Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper facilities and lasted over one hour.
It is believed that the transfer plans for the next coming weeks were the main agenda of the meeting as the club look to hand Xavi the best possible squad for him to challenge on multiple fronts this season.
Neymar no longer an option
One of the names that was heavily associated with Barcelona in the past week was former superstar Neymar.
The 31-year-old was said to be keen on securing a return to Barça while president Laporta was also in favour of the move.
However, that is no longer on the table as Neymar is on the cusp of signing for Saudi Arabian giants Al Hilal, having undergone his medicals earlier today.
There had been explorations to potentially sign the Brazilian on loan once he completes his transfer to Saudi Arabia, but that option has also been shot down.
As such, Neymar’s return is completely off the table and Barça could look at someone else, like Joao Felix, to strengthen the attack.
Joao Cancelo likely to arrive
While Neymar might have slipped away, Barcelona could still be in a strong position to secure the services of Joao Cancelo.
The past few days have seen some important developments with regard to a loan move for the Manchester City ace and the club administration are confident that the 29-year-old can be signed a loan deal with an option for purchase.
In fact, reports suggest that a formal bid could be launched soon and the coming week will be crucial in how the deal progresses.
