Barcelona with doubts over Memphis Depay signing

Barcelona could be changing their minds on a potential signing.

The situation between Barcelona and Lyon forward Memphis Depay could be taking a peculiar turn as doubts have emerged over his potential signing during the winter transfer window.

According to Sport, the club are having second thoughts about Depay, and this time, it has more to do with the sporting aspect rather than the financial side.

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The report claims that the Catalans believe that signing the Dutch forward could create a problem given the number of forwards already at the manager’s disposal.

As it stands, Ronald Koeman counts on the likes of Lionel Messi, Philippe Coutinho, Antoine Griezmann, Pedri, Martin Braithwaite and Francisco Trincao.

Ousmane Dembele is coming back from an injury but should be ready in time for Barcelona’s next match against Eibar.

Adding Depay means there could be a number of players who would see their playing time reduced because he is a player that Koeman wants.

He wanted Depay prior to the start of the season but a deal could not be reached. That has not changed and he remains a priority for the manager.

The only solution is to sell at least one forward. Braithwaite would have been the logical choice but he’s gained Koeman’s trust and has become an important part of his system. Braithwaite has started five matches in a row. He is also unlikely to agree to a move given his desire to succeed at the club.

The other option could be Dembele. Despite still having more than a year left in his contract, there has not been an inclination that he would be open to an extension. The last thing Barcelona want is to run the risk of losing him on a free considering how much it cost to bring him in from Borussia Dortmund.

If a sale is out of the picture, another possible scenario would be to loan players out. Trincao has not impressed when given the opportunity and he would be the most likely candidate to be loaned out.

The elephant in the room is the lack of a president and board. Elections are less than a month away but the new board will only have about a week to sign, or sell, players should they wish to do so.

A potential Depay signing would only cost Barcelona around €5 million but with their financial situation uncertain, a deal may not be as straightforward as it may appear.