As the summer transfer window nears its close, FC Barcelona finds itself in an unusual position as the only La Liga club yet to complete a signing.
At the outset of the window, hopes were high among Barça fans, buoyed by the prospect of landing top targets like Nico Williams and Dani Olmo. Club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco exuded optimism regarding the club’s financial situation, confident in their ability to strengthen the squad. But as the weeks have passed, optimism has turned to concern.
Nico Williams, once seen as a near-certain acquisition, is now seriously considering a return to Athletic Club Bilbao, which would leave Barcelona relatively thin at the wing positions. Meanwhile, recent reports suggest that a deal for Dani Olmo is close, but the €60 million price tag for another attacking midfielder doesn't necessarily address the club's most pressing needs. While Olmo would undoubtedly enhance Barcelona's attack, the squad still lacks depth on the wings and in defensive midfield — critical areas that need reinforcement if the club is to compete at the highest level.
With just weeks to go before the La Liga season kicks off, the lack of a single new signings is alarming. Despite this, there have been some positives under new manager Hansi Flick. He has quickly earned the trust of the board and is working on implementing a system that shows promise.
Placing significant faith in the club's emerging talents, Flick has provided ample opportunity for youngsters like Pau Victor, Pablo Torre, Marc Casado, and Marc Bernal to prove themselves during preseason play. Early indications are that these players could follow in the footsteps of La Masia graduates Lamine Yamal and Gavi, who broke into the first team convincingly last season.
However, relying solely on youth to fill the gaps is unrealistic. Barcelona’s refusal to part with players like Raphinha and İlkay Gündoğan, despite receiving multiple attractive offers, has hampered their ability to free up financial resources to go after any meaningful additions. While both Gundo and Raphinha have expressed their desire to stay, the club may be forced to make some sacrifices in order to bolster its squad.
As it stands, Blaugrana run the risk of coming up short on their lofty transfer window goals, unable to address their defensive flaws as a result of their unstable financial state.