Barcelona has fallen behind in the current transfer window in signing new players due to the unrest that prevailed during the pre-season. Koeman is still trying to snap up players to increase the squad depth following the new Barca model. The club looks to replace veterans with new youngsters. Barcelona’s youth academy La Masia has failed to deliver young talents consistently. However, last year graduate Ansu Fati did a great job securing his position into the first-team squad.
The lack of funds is also one of the reasons Koeman is backing off from spending in the transfer break. He has managed to save about €52 million on salaries and Nelson Semedo’s transfer deal fetches €40 million. The Dutch gaffer hoped to bolster the backline with the inclusion of former La Masia defender Eric Garcia. Barcelona could not reach the terms with Manchester City with the Catalan club offering not more than €15 million for Garcia. The asking price is set at €30 million and the Premier League side is not bowing out.
Alternative swap deal fails to reach an agreement
Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona suggested a swap deal including Rafinha Alcantara for the 19-year-old center-back. It seems Manchester City is not interested in the exchange deal at all and rooting for a cash deal. This makes Koeman stuck with only one option. He has to raise more funds to complete his transfer shortlist which also includes Memphis Depay. The Blaugrana is out of a proper out and out striker with Griezmann yet to score in the position. Depay is also a cheap alternative for long-term target Lautaro Martinez.
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Dembele: out of favor for Koeman’s team
The player Koeman could be interested in selling this summer is the unimpressive Ousmane Dembele. The 23-year-old did not do any justice to the massive €140 million paid to Dortmund since his arrival. His inconsistency due to lack of physical fitness is quite evident. Also, the youngster has a problem obeying the orders of the manager with arriving late to training regularly. The newly-appointed boss can strengthen his transfer budget and complete his squad before the season gains momentum.
Premier League side Manchester United are linked with the Frenchman. However, no bids are yet registered. Reports suggest the Red Devils would like to move in for a loan deal with an option to buy in the following year. Barcelona is in desperate need of funds and may not agree with the English outfit.
