Twenty days ago, I had written about the ‘perfect’ transfer window for Barça which included, among others, Timo Werner, Dayot Upamecano, Álex Grimaldo and Emerson.
The four of them had added up to a transfer expenditure of around €215 million. Somewhat reasonable, in today’s hyperinflated market, but still significant. It’s fair to say that circumstances have changed since then.
With COVID-19 wreaking havoc across the globe, sport has been suspended and so has cash flow into football clubs. In these circumstances, a summer spending spree does not look likely.
What does, then?
Well, with the Neymar/Lautaro rumours still persisting, it seems that Barça will still make (at least) one ‘Galactico’ signing, although that may mean no reinforcement in other areas.
That would be scenario one; Neymar/Lautaro + returning loanees, perhaps? That would mean Aleña, Trincão and Pedri would be added to the squad, with Coutinho, Rafinha and Todibo remaining as possibilities.
However, with reports emerging that Barça are looking to cash on the two Brazilians, Todibo might be the only loanee to stay with the Catalans, especially with Bild reporting Schalke will not be able to buy the Frenchman, due to their dire economic situation. However, with Barça themselves looking to cut costs, Todibo’s future still seems unclear.