Barcelona have been diligently tracking their transfer targets, but before they delve into signing new players, they need to comply with the Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
This has been a longstanding concern for the club, and to meet these financial requirements, Barcelona might have to consider selling some of their current players.
Any decisions made in the transfer market, however, will be influenced by the input of their new coach, Hansi Flick.
Flick has a general idea of how he wants his Barcelona team to function and has identified a few key players that fit his strategy.
However, the broader picture remains a concern. If Barcelona manage to adhere to the 1:1 rule of FFP, they will aim to sign significant players and here are five players they might want to acquire:
Mikel Merino
Mikel Merino currently plays for Real Sociedad, and his contract runs until 2025. This could make him a more affordable option if Barcelona decide to make a move this summer.
However, recent reports indicate that his release clause has increased from €60 million to €65 million due to a stipulation in his current contract.
This could be a stumbling block for Barcelona, but there might be room for negotiation given his contractual situation.
Barcelona might approach this by proposing a deal worth €25 million with an additional bonus of up to €5 million, making the total value €30 million. This seems reasonable for a player of Merino’s quality and experience.
Nico Williams
To make way for new players, Barcelona might consider selling Raphinha, and one potential replacement could be Nico Williams, a left-winger.
While Luis Diaz is another option due to his experience, Williams’ potential for growth, given his age, makes him a better long-term investment.
Williams has been a priority target for Barcelona for some time, but interest seemed to cool down after he signed a new contract in December, which includes a €60 million release clause.
If Barcelona can meet the 1:1 ruling, paying this fee would not be an issue, especially if they make significant sales this summer.
Xavi Simons
Flick’s appointment has slowed Barcelona’s interest in Xavi Simons. However, Simons could significantly elevate Barcelona’s status and it is said that discussions about his return to Barcelona have been ongoing.
At this time, his future remains uncertain as he is set to return to Paris Saint-Germain. Despite this, he has expressed a preference for Barcelona over other teams.
While the club’s interest in him is clear, Flick’s opinion will be crucial in deciding whether to pursue him.
Joshua Kimmich
Joshua Kimmich, a versatile midfielder and defender from Bayern Munich, would be an exciting addition to Barcelona.
His contract extension talks with Bayern have been on hold, which gives Barcelona an opportunity. Flick is a huge fan of Kimmich and has informed the club that he wants them to pursue the German’s signature this summer.
It is said that Barcelona have already started negotiations with Bayern for Kimmich. However, Kimmich is not satisfied with Barcelona’s initial offer, but Flick’s involvement could be crucial.
Flick, who has previously coached Kimmich at Bayern and Germany, has a good relationship with him and will do everything possible to bring him to Barcelona.
Bernardo Silva
Bernardo Silva’s experience would be beneficial for Barcelona, especially given their strategy of integrating youth players into the first team as his presence could be impactful both on and off the field.
Manchester City have a clear stance regarding their players: if a player wants to leave and it benefits the team, they will let him go.
If Barcelona meet the financial regulations, they can pursue Silva’s acquisition as his vast experience could help guide the younger players and strengthen the team’s overall performance.
