Barcelona opens door to 5 departures as club seeks funds for new striker
Barcelona are reportedly prepared to listen to offers for five players before the transfer window closes as the Catalan club looks to reshape its squad and create room for further recruitment.
Barcelona could be heading for a dramatic final stretch of the summer transfer window, with as many as five players reportedly facing possible departures from the club.
Frenkie de Jong, Jules Koundé, Alejandro Balde, Marc Casadó and Héctor Fort have all been linked with exits as Barcelona look to make changes to their squad before the deadline.
The latest reports suggest Casadó and Fort are closest to leaving, with both players understood to be outside the club’s immediate plans. The situations involving De Jong, Koundé and Balde are more significant, given their experience and status within the squad.
De Jong’s future has attracted particular attention, with Manchester City reportedly monitoring his situation, while Koundé’s position has become less secure following Eric García’s emergence as Hansi Flick’s preferred option at right-back.
Balde, meanwhile, has also been associated with interest from Manchester United. Barcelona’s willingness to consider offers appears to be linked to their desire to generate financial flexibility while continuing to strengthen the squad, particularly in attack.
The club recently completed the major signing of Rodri from Manchester City, adding further competition and quality to Flick’s midfield. Barcelona have also begun the new La Liga campaign, meaning any late departures could have an immediate impact on squad depth.
However, the reported availability of the five players does not necessarily mean all will leave, as suitable offers and the club’s sporting requirements will ultimately determine which deals are completed before the window shuts.
