The Spanish press is reporting that a major clear-out is on the horizon in Catalonia this summer. No fewer than 17 players could be on their way out, with some big names included.
It’s shaping up to be a bustling summer for FC Barcelona, both in terms of arrivals and departures, though perhaps more so the latter. Following a disappointing season, marked by a quarter-final exit in the Champions League, losing the league title, and another quarter-final departure in the Copa del Rey, the Catalan club is looking to forge new beginnings for the next season. In this regard, El Desmarque provides an update this Wednesday on the players likely to leave Barça in the coming weeks.
Unsurprisingly, Marcos Alonso, hindered by a back injury since December and relegated to a substitute role, will depart at the end of his contract. Several loaned players might follow him, including Sergiño Dest (PSV), who has stated he has no intention of returning as long as Xavi is there, and Clément Lenglet, who will be seeking an exit. Julián Araujo (Las Palmas) and Álex Valle (Levante), both performing well in their respective clubs, should have their chance upon their return, at least during the pre-season.
However, if Xavi is not convinced, Barça will look to find them temporary exits. For Moroccan Chadi Riad, the chances of Betis activating his 3 million euro purchase option are increasing day by day, and his return to Catalonia is becoming less likely. Pablo Torre, lacking playing time at Girona, and Ansu Fati, slowed by a knee injury during his stint at Brighton, are expected to be loaned out again. El Desmarque notes that the only satisfaction for Barça among its loaned players is Eric Garcia, recently praised by Xavi. The Spanish international is very likely to return.
Significant figures could leave the club—what about Portuguese internationals João Cancelo and João Félix? For the media, the only chance of them staying at Barça would be through an extension of their loans. The former, an untouchable starter but in decline in recent weeks, remains highly valued by Xavi. The latter has seen his playing time dwindle over the past few months.
Although Jorge Mendes has a close relationship with Joan Laporta, it is almost inconceivable that Barça could afford both players in the form of outright transfers. Another significant player likely to leave Catalonia is Ronald Araujo. The Uruguayan’s popularity has drastically dropped in recent weeks, and in the event of a colossal offer, he will not be retained, especially if Eric Garcia returns and promising Mika Faye is promoted to the first team.
In midfield, El Desmarque asserts that Frenkie de Jong and Pedri will be put on the market if attractive offers are received. This information is surprising but understandable given that the club is not going through its most prosperous period financially. The former has one of the highest salaries in the dressing room, while the latter continues to suffer from injuries. Raphinha might also fly to new pastures, especially since his market value in England remains untouched.
Robert Lewandowski, who will turn 36 this summer, will not be held back, nor will Oriol Romeu, whose arrival last summer seems like a casting mistake. Finally, it remains to be seen what Barça will do with its Brazilian prodigy Vitor Roque (19 years old), who is expected to become the future number 9 of the club but has struggled to make an impact since his arrival. The idea of a loan is increasingly gaining traction in the Spanish press. In short: the summer will be no walk in the park for Barcelona.
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