Quique Setien planning summer raid on Barcelona
Real Betis could help cut down Barcelona’s wage bill.
According to AS, Los Verdiblancos are interested in three Barcelona players as they prepare for Europa League football. Their interest in Paco Alcacer had already been previously reported, but they are now also interested in Munir and Denis Suarez. Adding depth to the squad will be key this summer due to the additional fixtures as they aim to build on last season.
Setien’s style of play means that Barca players would fit in well; he uses a possession-based approach with the intent to control the game through positional play. His first season with Betis was a huge success as they finished sixth. They also delighted fans and neutrals with an ambitious approach which led to a number of high scorelines.
Betis utilised a number of formations which were fluid in their shape. Therefore, it’s hard to say how they will set-up next season even in regards to whether they will have two up front or just a lone striker; Setien likes to adapt his team’s shape to the opposition. Alcacer is used to being a lone striker in the rare opportunities he plays, with Messi dropping deep and Ernesto Valverde usually opting for a 4-4-2 formation. Munir’s time with Alaves means that he built up a good understanding as a front two often alongside John Guidetti or Ruben Sobrino.
Suarez is used to a three-man midfield, but the style of play suits him. Therefore, it wouldn’t take him long to adapt to Setien’s systems. He could help aid progression up the pitch by linking up with the forward areas through his positional intelligence and passing ability. The 24-year-old would add to a potent midfield that includes players such as Fabian Ruiz, Andres Guardado and Ryad Boudebouz.
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Should Barcelona sell?
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One of the two strikers should be sold because only one back-up is needed. Munir has age on his side, but Alcacer has played well when given opportunities this season. There is also wages to take into account, which suits Munir. The decision is dependent on whether Ernesto Valverde is willing to give Munir a chance with pre-season potentially being key to that. This needs to be sorted out promptly, though, because he only has a year left on his contract.
Betis are not the best place to sell to because they are potentially limited in the amount they can spend. According to AS, Betis would be unwilling to spend 12 million euros on Munir with 10 million and and a future sale clause being the compromise. Therefore, Barca should try to attract the attention of a Premier League club before considering selling to the club. Unless Betis would be willing to sort out a future transfer for the talented Ruiz in which case they can have priority.
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Suarez shouldn’t be sold because he deserves a chance to claim a first-team role. Andres Iniesta’s departure leaves a major hole that needs to be filled. There will be strong competition for the role from Philippe Coutinho, Carles Alena and Arthur. However, Suarez has shown glimpses of his talent and consistent playing time could allow him to flourish. Next season will be key for him because Barcelona should consider selling if he still lacks consistency.