An update on Barcelona’s transfer plans for the winter and summer transfer market has been provided by manager Xavi Hernández.
The Catalan club are currently fourth in La Liga, seven points away from arch-rivals Real Madrid, who sit joint-top alongside Girona. Xavi’s side have had an inconsistent campaign and have suffered injuries to key players such as Gavi, sparking rumours about the club looking to bring in some new additions.
Barca have already brought in Vitor Roque, who was expected to join in the summer rather than the January transfer window. However, Joan Laporta granted Xavi’s wish and the club brought forward the deal for the attacker.
The Blaugrana also want to sign Portuguese duo João Cancelo and João Félix on a permanent basis, as at the moment both players are set to return to their parent clubs in six months’ time.
Reports have also emerged linking the Spanish giants with superstars Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland. Both players have also been constantly linked with Los Blancos.
As reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Xavi has admitted that the club cannot afford to compete for the signature of Mbappe or Haaland due to their delicate financial situation.
He said: “Haaland or Mbappé? We can’t think of Haaland or Mbappé to join Barça now.
“We can’t afford these players, unfortunately. I’m happy with the players I have.
“We need to reach our best level as at this club we need to be always at the top level”.
The Blaugrana are currently in a tough financial position, due to stricter FFP laws being enforced in La Liga. Despite this, the club have also been linked with moves for Girona’s Aleíx García and Messinho from Palmeiras.
However, the Spanish manager has dismissed suggestions that he has spoken to either player and admits he is unsure if the club will make any further additions in this transfer window.
He added: “I haven’t spoken to Aleíx García. I don’t know if we can sign any other player because we depend on Fair Play.
“Messinho from Palmeiras? I haven’t seen much of him, to be honest. We are focused on other things now.”
Rajan Sangha | GSFN
