Barcelona must sell players to reshape a squad that underperformed last season under former head coach Xavi.
The Catalan’s disappointing season saw a change in management, with Hansi Flick coming in ahead of the new campaign.
La Liga slashed Barca’s salary cap from €648 million last year to €204 million, so names must be moved on to ensure that they align with the rules.
Club president Joan Laporta has expressed confidence in managing these financial challenges, though he has always fallen short of mentioning player sales.
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Still, it’s clear that what’s Barcelona must do.
But in the case of the players, careers have haltered and certain squad members must look to depart the Camp Nou. Here are five Barcelona players who should look for a move away to reignite their career.
Frenkie de Jong
Barcelona and Frenkie de Jong are at a crossroads reminiscent of the summer of 2022 when the club considered selling him to Manchester United. The club accepted a bid for De Jong, but he wanted to stay.
Despite being offered a multi-year contract extension without a salary reduction, De Jong must branch out. He would thrive in a club like Manchester City and even had admirers at Chelsea and Manchester United. His relationship with Barcelona must be tested at this point and so he should look to move on.
Ronald Araujo
Ronald Araujo has one of the highest market values in the squad and yet publicly deemed “untouchable” by Barca.
Last season, Bayern Munich was willing to pay €75 million for him but a deal never came to fruition. Araujo, whose contract extends to 2026, could yet sign until to 2029. But a move away would make sense given the side have multiple centre-backs, while the likes of Pau Cubarsi might force a sale in the years to come.
Robert Lewandowski
Robert Lewandowski would be the first to admit that his form has dipped. The Poland international was Barcelona’s top scorer last season, but he’s 35 now and earning €26m annually.
He is unlikely to entertain a move for that reason, but for footballing ones, the veteran should look to make a switch. His contract has an option for Barca to break it after three years, contingent on his match appearances, meaning it’s probable his game time will be reduced.
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Gavi
Paris Saint-Germain’s interest in Gavi is notable, with coach Luis Enrique and president Nasser Al-Khelaifi admiring him. Another name that is deemed viewed as ‘unsellable,’ Barcelona could alleviate a lot of financial hardship by selling the star.
The youngster has a contract until 2026 with a €1 billion release clause, so it would be Barcalona accepting a bid.
Raphinha
Raphinha was brought in for nearly €60 million in 2022 from Leeds but has shown inconsistent form in Spain. With competition Ansu Fati, Ferran Torres, and the emergent Lamine Yamal, etc, the winger’s future at Barca is uncertain and he is better off breaking away.
The club prefers selling him, viewing offers from the Premier League or Saudi Arabia as ones that would meet their valuation of him.