Barcelona president Joan Laporta partook in a discussion at the Círculo Ecuestre de Barcelona, and opened up about multiple topics like Xavi Hernandez‘s future, Lionel Messi, and the club’s transfer plans.
La Liga have imposed a transfer ban on Barca stating that the club needs to raise £178 million to meet the Financial Fair Play regulations. While this means that many names will need to be sold this summer in order to make room for reinforcements, Laporta remains optimistic.
When asked about what plans the Catalan giants have for the summer transfer window, Laporta said:
"“Barça will surely have to sign a full-back and also a center-back as long as there is a good opportunity in this case. I think a striker will also have to arrive, but someone will have to come out,”“We have a good midfield. There are many players in this position and I don’t think it’s essential to sign in this position. Especially when we have a great academy. We’ll look at the academy there and Xavi will surely do it”.Source Sport"
Defensive overhaul seems to be the focus for the summer with the Barca chief hinting toward forwards exiting the club. Ansu Fati has been a major transfer target with many European giants keen on securing the talented winger. Ousmane Dembele and Ferran Torres could also be used as scapegoats to raise funds.
Despite the ban, Laporta remains adamant about being able to sign reinforcements stating,
"“I am hearing that Barça will not be able to sign. Yes, it is true that we have exceeded the limit and that is going to limit us a lot, but we are working and we will do everything possible to sign. Some player will also have to leave, but we will sign”"
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