Barcelona to prioritize defender’s signing over Memphis Depay

Barcelona look to secure a centre-back in January.

Since the arrival of Ronald Koeman at the Nou Camp, one of his main goals for Barcelona was to land the signature of former Manchester United star Memphis Depay. The Lyon star was keen on a move to the La Liga too as the forward has outstanding chemistry with the Dutchman. Their time together in the Netherlands National team was eye-opening. Hence, since his arrival, the former Everton manager wanted to bring in the forward.

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Due to financial problems, the former Southampton coach failed to land Depay last summer. The French club even reduced the forward’s price to 25 million euros which is a total bargain in today’s market in order to make it more comfortable for Barcelona to sign the Dutchman.

Even after all this, the Catalans could not gather the funds to support Koeman for this transfer. The former United man was heavily disappointed.

However, to not get his hopes up, Depay is reportedly looking for a move to the La Liga in January, hoping Barcelona will make a bid on him. While that is surely a priority for Koeman, it now looks like it may have changed.

Multiple sources now suggest that the Blaugranas are going to fully commit to securing a defender in the January transfer window. The reports suggest that the former Netherlands National team coach will prioritize the signing of Manchester City youngster Eric Garcia over Depay.

However, the signing of the Dutch number 9 is not going to be ruled out as he is still a priority for the Catalans. But Barca face competition from Paris Saint-Germain, who will surely look to sweep the striker if the Spanish giants fail to make any approach. City have reportedly reached an agreement with Barcelona over a deal which sees Garcia over at the La Liga in the winter, but even if that fails, Garcia will be a free agent in summer, allowing him to join any club he wishes to for free.

Should Barca prioritize defenders or attackers?