Barcelona captain Lionel Messi has requested to make five signings in what could be an unprecedented transfer window this summer.
Barcelona are expected to undergo a major overhaul of their squad this summer. Ernesto Valverde’s sacking didn’t see Quique Setien turn any sharp a corner at the Camp Nou, so it’s time that the board realises that the issue is with the players and the coach is not the only one to be blamed. In light of this, Lionel Messi has asked for five players, Don Balon claims.
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First and foremost, the Barca captain wants the return of Neymar. The Brazil international’s departure has severely impact the club, especially in the Champions League, and their goal-scoring options have been very narrow since. Paris Saint-Germain may be ready to sell their world-record signing, but won’t settle for less, however, Messi wants him back.
Second of all, Messi thinks that this is the right time to bring in Lautaro Martinez. Inter Milan are being notorious over their demands, but it seems like a matter of time before the Catalans breakthrough. Martinez’s first season may not see him get a crucial player’s status, but he can learn a great deal from Luis Suarez and back him up for some months.
Jordi Alba is another of the Catalans’ ageing players. The former Valencia man has been dealing with muscular niggles more often than he would at any point in his career, whereas Junior Firpo has not impressed. Messi believes an established left back such as Alex Grimaldo or Nicolas Tagliafico among others is what the club requires.
Messi has also shed light on the requirement of a central defender. Samuel Umtiti is expected to depart this summer and Gerard Pique might well call it a day next year. Barcelona are expected to be short with their options in the centre of defence sooner of later, so their captain thinks Alessio Romagnoli or Diego Carlos would be ideal.
Lastly, Sergio Busquets is the last man left from the Blaugrana’s illustrious midfield trio from some years ago. The defensive midfielder has shown that he is no more indispensable, and being overworked has taken a toll on his form. The Spaniard is still a regular at the Camp Nou, but Messi feels that Eduardo Camavinga or Sandro Tonali need to come in soon.
Do you think that the Blaugrana have enough leverage to sign all five necessary players?