Barcelona have been heavily criticised in recent transfer markets, but it seems like this time around they finally got things right and credit must be given to the new Sporting Director Eric Abidal.
Barcelona have taken care of some major transfer business on both ends – signing and selling players and many are starting to believe it has turned out to be one of the best transfer windows in the club’s history.
One day after the transfer window has closed, we take a look at Barcelona’s four summer signings.
Arthur Melo
The first piece of business was the Brazilian playmaker, Arthur Melo. His versatility and composure on the ball quickly caught the attention of the Azulgranas, and the club knew he would fit into Ernesto Valverde’s plans especially after the big gap Andres Iniesta left within the squad with his departure to China.
His critical role in Gremio’s Copa do Brasil win in 2016 had several elite clubs throwing his name around but it was Barcelona who sealed the deal. Arthur signed a six-year deal with the Catalans for an amount of €40m. Barcelona saw his great potential from the start and instantly slapped a 400 million euro release clause, making it practically impossible for other clubs to approach him.
The Brazilian’s preseason campaign was excellent, being a key figure in the team’s matches. And his debut started in a fashionable manner, after the 22-year-old netted a stunning goal against Tottenham Hotspur, making the football world go wild.
Despite his enormous amount of talent and his Xavi-esque touches, the most impressive aspect of the footballer was his quick adaptation to the squad.
After crossing seas to a new country with a different language and culture, and playing with a different team with unfamiliar teammates, you would think it would take some time to adapt to his new club and life, but that was not the case for the Brazilian.
Arthur’s performances so far have been nothing short of exceptional, looking as if he was brought up through the ranks of La Masía due to the way he reads the game and handles the ball. A much-needed singing to reinforce the team and bring a spark back into the midfield.
Clement Lenglet
Barcelona then went after former Sevilla man Clement Lenglet. The club were looking for a backup replacement in the central defence position for both Samuel Umtiti or Gerard Pique and the French defender was the perfect man for the job. The Catalans paid out his buy-out clause of 35.9 million euros, penning a five-year deal. His release clause with the Blaugrana is now valued at 300 million.
Last season, Valverde was left scratching his head when both of his two central defenders picked up an injury, as his backup options were not the greatest. Thomas Vermaelen was the main man Valverde looked at when the time came and although the Belgian is a decent option, he tends to be prone to injuries, causing even more concern in Can Barça. Therefore, for these reasons Abidal and Co. went on the hunt to find a strong replacement and fell upon the French international Lenglet.
Although the defender suffered in his first several preseason performances, the 23-year-old’s combination of strength, intelligence, and, above all, ball skills will be of great help to the Catalans.
Malcom
Then came the controversial Malcom signing. At first, it looked as if the former Bordeaux striker was en route to move to AS Roma, with both clubs confirming the news but then things took a turn. Barcelona hijacked his deal with the Italian side, offering a higher price and the Brazilian striker instantly agreed, making his dream move to the Camp Nou. A total amount of 36.5 million euros was paid by the Blaugrana for the Brazilian’s services and since his arrival, he has shown to be a great addition to the team, already netting two goals alongside Lionel Messi and Co.
Although his quick eye to goal will be of great help in Barcelona’s challenge to conquer the treble, his signing will bring major competition with French youngster Ousmane Dembele, as both the forwards occupy the same position. Time will tell who will fill up the right flank but as for now, it looks as if Barça’s mega-millionaire signing is set to get most of the call-ups.
Arturo Vidal
Last but not least was the surprise signing of Arturo Vidal. It all happened too quick, as the news was announced surrounding his transfer and a day later it was confirmed and made official. After Paulinho’s departure to China, Valverde demanded a strong midfielder to replace the Brazilian and it was Vidal who has now taken up his spot. After several years at Juventus and Bayern Munich, the Chilean, who made his dream move to the Catalan city for a reported 21 million euros in total, has arrived at the Camp Nou with his main objective being the Champions League.
Barcelona are on the hunt for all three titles this season and with their flashy new additions, the future looks bright for Valverde’s men in their 2018/2019 campaign.