Barcelona Rumours

29 Apr 2024 16:35:26
Hi ed002 is it possible to get one of them fantastic lists you make for ins/outs. Much appreciated and enjoy your day

{Ed002's Note - Ask in a week or two please.}

07 May 2024 19:51:32
Ed002 any chance of the ins/out list if you have time? Thank you for everything

{Ed002's Note - Major wage issues still. Right now, Barcelona are trying to get wages off the books and will accept loans with the obligation to buy, but they could do with some cash as they try to regroup - so a preference will be to sell, even at a slight discount. They need to make wage savings of something close to €250M from next season when bonuses are taken in to account. Regardless what Deco says about keeping players, the likes of de Jong, Christiansen, Raphinha, Torres and Gundogan need to move on. Their issues are compounded by an FFP issue with UEFA in respoct of claiming future image rights now rather than for the applicable season. It is not a significant issue but UEFA want it to stop. A huge €120M PA and €100M signing on fee with Nike will ease much of the pressure as they look to building up a significant pot of funds for a planned huge purchase in 2025.

Potential Departures

Sergino Dest (RB) PSV will look to a permanent deal in January 2025 if Barcelona keep the price to perhaps €15M. Serious injury means he is out until perhaps December and will need to prove his fitness.
Mikayil Faye (LB/CB) Signed under the Coutinho Agreement - interest from Bayer Leverkusen with English and Italian sides also scouting him. WP issues for England and unless an over the top offer comes, Barcelona will not look to sell but could offer him to NIce as part of a deal for Thuram but will want a buy-back option or a significant sell on clause. Interest from Girona and Juventus will likely go nowhere.
Marcos Alonso (LB) Will leave as a Free Agent in the summer. He is aware Atletico want him.
Alejandro Balde (LWB) Barcelona do not wish to sell but coming in to the last year of his contract are concerned that negotiations for a new contract will hinge on what Mendes may ask for in terms of wages knowing that interest in the player remains from Chelsea after attempts to sign him over the past three years failed. He has the opportunity to take the LB position in the first team at Chelsea and it is possible a player plus cash option might be acceptable to Barcelona. The clubs will again meet to discuss potential options. A wildcard option for Manchester United.
Hector Fort (RB) Barcelona have no interest in selling but the kid wants guarantees for the future, which may see an initial loan.
Sergi Roberto (RB/RM) Free agent in the summer. Prefers MLS over the Middle East.
Pau Curbasi (CB) Barcelona kiddie on the Vision 2030 list for Chelsea but cannot move to England this summer. Barcelona will look to keep him.
Eric Garcia (CB) Surplus to immediate needs so Barcelona may look to sell. Pre-season will tell.
Jules Kounde (CB) Offered by his agent to Chelsea who have had a long-term interest. Barcelona don't want to sell but there are some issues the club are looking to resolve and he will bring a good return. I am not aware of any Liverpool interest but he has only been at Barcelona for a year. Inter Milan may offer an option at the right price. His agent offered him to Aston Villa for leverage because he does not want to play at RB.
Ronald Araujo (CB) Bayern Munich and Manchester United have an interest. Barcelona wants the defence rebuilt but need funds and €80M for Araujo would help but will likely opt for extending the player’s contract and looking to other sales. Bayern rejected an exchange proposal.
Andreas Christensen (CB) Available.
Inigo Martinez (CB) Barcelona will try to offer the player to Atletico in attempt to sign Joao Felix but they will need to do more than that.
Clement Lenglet (CB) Not worked out and will likely return to Barcelona in the summer to be sold on. Milan may offer an option. Perhaps the Middle East.
Oriol Romeu (DM) A move to Girona seems likely.
Pedri (CM) Will be given a new long-term contract by Barcelona.
Fermin Lopez (CM) Available for €12M and not excelling. Everton asked for a loan previously and Aston Villa may do the same. Available for horse trading.
Frenkie de Jong (CM/DM) Barcelona will look for a new contract with reduced wages else he will be sold in the summer with possible interest remaining from Manchester United if ten Hag stays. PSG have spoken with his agent and additionally his agent has raised his availability with Chelsea whist discussing another player but they have no interest. A wildcard may be Arsenal.
Gavi (CM/AM) Barcelona will attempt to solve their Salary Cap issues and keep hold of the player. who will likely not want to leave, but the club have the continued harsh reality of needing to significantly reduce costs. ACL injury takes him out for the season and makes any move in the short term most unlikely – might be an offer from PSG in the summer of 2025.
Raphinha (RW/LW) Has struggled to displace Dembele or Ansu Fati on a regular basis and will be sold if Barcelona can recover the fee they paid for him, else they will keep him. Manchester United or Newcastle may be an option. Even Spurs, Liverpool or Arsenal perhaps. Barcelona will look to sell to the Middle East to get the best possible price and have spoken with Michael Emenalo with Al-Hilal interested. Could be an Anthony replacement in Manchester.
Lamine Yamal (RW) Barcelona don't need the wages of the 16 year old off the books but with Alex Collado gone and Raphinha being sold this summer they will look to keep him. PSG has an interest and made a significant offer that was rejected. €200M buy out clause.
Ferran Torres (LW) Getting game time and Barcelona are no longer open to offers. Chelsea and Juventus have sent scouts but Chelsea opted for another and Juve are re-evaluating their plans after penalties.
Ansu Fati (LW/F) Expect him to leave if they can raise €70M or so. Sevilla and Valencia offer summer options.
Vitor Roque (F) Only moved to Barcelona in January but is unhappy as he is only getting a few minutes per game. Agent has said that perhaps should have opted for Chelsea but he could of ended up going down the same route with them. Agent says a loan will not be acceptable to the player or his client. Implication is that with Xavi staying he could look for a permanent exit - which may interest Chelsea or Arsenal.
Robert Lewandowski (S) ME or MLS beckons but he wants another year at Barcelona pending their efforts to then sign Haaland. The club would be happy to get his wages off the books as they look to freshen up the side in the summer but I suspect if they can’t get an affordable replacement then he will stay for another season.


Players Known to Have been of some interest:

Michael Kayode (RB) Manchester United has a declared interest but Fiorentina will not wish to sell. Inter consider him a replacement for Denzil Dumfries. Arsenal and Barcelona have sent scouts.
Sergi Cardona (LB) Seen as an option by Real Betis.
Joao Cancelo (LB) Loan to permanent at Barcelona is problematic without sales. Al Hilal have enquired with Manchester City via Michael Emanalo.
Lutsharel Geertruida (CB/RB) Barcelona are keen to take Geertruida as cover but player wants guarantees of game time. Will move elsewhere.
Murillo (CB) The sharks are circling as Nottingham Forest look to shore the club up against further FFP charges and move players on. Liverpool and Chelsea have sent scouts but I understand both consider him physically short to meet their desires. Barcelona have also sent scouts as they see him as versatile enough to fit in a three with their revamped defence.
Aymeric Laporte (CB) PSG will make an offer. Spurs have held a discussion with his agent. Barcelona offer an option but will need to agree sales first.
Alan Varela (DM) Barcelona may offer a profit to Porto and a player in exchange. PSG has a declared interest. An option for Manchester City to replace Phillips, but not first choice although they have spoken with Porto. Liverpool were interested before his move and could look to add him. Chelsea may provide an option having sent scouts but there is no declared interest. Dortmund will not match his buy out clause. Porto has no interest in selling the player who only joined them in the summer of 2023 unless someone offered his buy out clause in a single payment, then the player will be consulted.
Andrey Santos (DM/CM) Huge talent but a wasted 6 months at Nottingham Forest. If the Chelsea owners complete another transaction a season long loan to a club in Portugal becomes a possibility. Potentially huge talent. Barcelona, Milan and Newcastle have asked about his availability on loan.
Morten Hjulmand (DM/CM) Arrived from Lecce in the summer of 2023 - not available unless an offer that meets his huge release clause is made - and even then the player may not be interested in a move so soon after joining. Arsenal are looking at Elneny and Jorginho leaving as Free Agents in the summer and have sent scouts. He is also seen as an option for Manchester United but currently not first choice. Spurs interest has gone. Barcelona may propose some horse trading.
Rafael Venancio (CB) Barcelona and Chelsea have both made offers to take him in the summer but loan him back to Corinthians until the end of the season. Very will thought of. Other European sides have sent scouts.
Joshua Kimmich (DM) Bayern Munich will now make him available, a significant fee would be sought - well beyond what interested sides Barcelona or Manchester City would pay for a 28 year old on €400k per week.
Mats Wieffer (DM/CM) Barcelona may well make an offer which would be attractive to the player. Was seen as an option to replace Tonali at Milan but they opted for Loftus Cheek. Lazio have enquired but have some further trimming to do first. Nice consider him a potential Thuram replacement but the Agent of the player would like him to move to the PL and has offered him to Brighton. Feyenoord agreed a new contract in May 2023 and will not be looking to sell, which is what they told Atletico in January.
Bruno Guimaraes (DM) Real Madrid and Barcelona maintain an interest but he is not top of the list for either although Barcelona may switch their attention to him but would want to offer players in any deal. Chelsea interest has likely gone but Manchester City remain keen. Newcastle need to avoided FFP issues and he may well be one to leave. Long-term Arsenal interest went with the signing of Rice but could return with the departure of Partey and Jorginho. PSG may offer a good summer option.
Khephren Thuram (DM/CM) Nice felt they were messed around by clubs last summer and then the player picked up an injury. Interest of Spurs and, in particular, Juventus remains but Liverpool will look to other options. Interest of Newcastle will likely of fallen away. Milan may offer an option. If interest further grows his price will rise and the club would sell given the emergence of Alexis Beka Beka regardless of impressive youngster Reda Belahyane being sold to Verona. Nice do not want to sell and again a move to Old Trafford will not be welcomed by the Nice supporters. Real Madrid have him on a list of potential additions given they are facing midfield departures in the summer - and I would not rule them, or indeed Manchester City or Barcelona, out. Player wants PSG but they have no interest at this time - but his representative is pushing PSG as well as Real Madrid and will encourage the player to wait and see what happens.
Guido Rodriguez (DM) Will be 30 and a Free Agent in the summer. Could have been an option to Endo for Liverpool after prior interest. A cheap option as cover for Manchester United. Lyon and Wolves had loan offers rejected in the summer. Milan may offer an option but it will be the attraction of Barcelona that will win out.
Lucas Bergvall (CM) Moving to Spurs rather than Barcelona.
Roony Bardghji (RW/AM) Left footed kiddie who has attracted attention from many sides will not move before the summer of 2025.
Thiago Alcantara (CM) His representatives have spoken to Barcelona about the player finishing his career back at the club but he would need to be very cheap and to have reduced wages. Seems unlikely.
Dani Olmo (AM/W) Signed a new contract but could still be sold this summer if a significant offer were made. Atletico, Spurs, Manchester City and Barcelona are interested, although Barcelona have preferred options. Chelsea considered him as a Mason Mount replacement but have preferred options. Manchester United may offer a wildcard option. Bayern Munich interest has gone.
Joao Felix (AM/F) Will be sold in the summer to help fund a major purchase for Atletico. Barcelona do not have an option to buy but will be interested in another loan.
Luis Guilherme (AM) Manchester United, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester City, Liverpool and Barcelona have shown an interest in the player for next summer. Chelsea discussed him during negotiations two other players. Spurs may well have noted him when scouting another Palmeiras player. However, a new contract and a €60M release clause will prove to be an issue.
Desire Doue (AM) Newcastle, Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund have a declared interest in Doue. Other clubs have sent scouts to watch the youngster.
Alberto Moleiro (AM/W) Aston Villa are keen and Barcelona enquired after an exchange of players. Liverpool and Manchester City sent scouts before Christmas. Inter offer a wildcard option.
Xavi Simons (CM/AM) PSG will talk to the player and assure him of game time and tell him he is not for sale. Barcelona would like him back but would need to persuade PSG to take players in exchange. Manchester City see him as another potential de Bruyne replacement. Agent has spoken with Chelsea.
Estevao Willian (RW/F) Another kiddie scouted by Manchester City and Arsenal. Chelsea have made a proposal to take him in 2025 when he turns 18. Real Madrid and Barcelona will likely do the same. Will likely move to Chelsea.
Luis Diaz (LW) Could be surplus. His agent already has one player in the Saudi league and has been offering another high profile player he has - so he may well be looking at Diaz as well given Liverpool are wellk stocked in the position. Al-Hillal may offer a solution. Liverpool could look to a deal with Barcelona if they are serious about Raphinha. Will be too expensive for Barcelona to commit funds to and they have a much preferred target.
Nico Williams (LW/RW) Young Basque winger and brother to Inaki who has eased himself in to the first team over the last two seasons. Terse response from the Spanish U21 set up (along the lines of "he does not score many goals for an attacker") when told he was changing his allegiance to Ghana, like his brother - and that led to him changing back to Spain. There was plenty of interest in him so a contract extension and buy out clause were awarded to the player at the start of 2022 and again in December 2023, pricing him out of a move to Barcelona at €50M plus a significant signing on fee. The Aston Villa coach wishes to be reunited and they will push for a deal in the summer but he may opt to stay for a year or two more after signing a new contract. Looked at by numerous Premier League clubs including Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal as well as Barcelona and Real Madrid. Chelsea may look to an offer if their first choice is unobtainable.
Alex Baena (LW/AM) Recommended to Chelsea by an ex-player although they opted for a preferred option. Scouted by Arsenal after a good start to the season. Whilst on loan at Girona, Liverpool, Newcastle and Nice sent scouts. Barcelona offer a wildcard option but the player will have limited opportunities if he moves there.
and other options.
Rafael Leao (LW) Right footed left winger Leao signed a new contract last summer after serious interest was shown earlier in the year by Bayern Munich and Manchester City. Manchester City's interest remains. The interest of Chelsea went with the signing of Mykhaylo Mudryk and even though they are still looking for another similar player they have a far preferred option. I cannot see the player moving to Newcastle who enquired in the summer but PSG have sent scouts and he is seen as an option to replace Mbappe, but not top of the list. Barcelona have him on a lengthy list of wide options for the summer but need to sell. He could also be an option for Real Madrid as they clear the decks - but they would look to including a player in a deal which will cost at least €120M and it would mean Mbappe moving elsewhere - and that is not going to happen. I am not aware of Liverpool making any approach and they have four right footed players who can play on the left side of attack - and they need a left footed right sided forward. As such it would make little sense and costs a great deal of money. A wildcard would be Manchester United. Player likely wants to stay in Milan.
Kaoru Mitoma (LW) Fortunate to get a Work Permit initially and Brighton has no interest in selling him but Arsenal and Manchester United see him as an option. A wildcard would be Manchester City or Barcelona.
Gabriel Martinelli (LW) On a lengthy list of options for Barcelona but likely too expensive and not available.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (LW) In late 2021 Torino, Borussia Dortmund and Lokomotiv Moscow were speaking with Rubin Kazan who said they were not willing to sell at that time. Previously the player had been watched by Bayern Munich and his agent had been hawking him around the Premier League clubs including Everton with, according to him, Leeds showing some interest. Ancelotti had been open to the idea of replacing Bolasie and Bernard with him but it was clear something was going on in the background. Remarkably he was sold to Georgian side Dinamo Batumi for a small amount of money but well beyond their means in March 2022. For 3 months Napoli and Juventus discussed a deal with his agent and on July 1, 2022 he moved to Napoli, giving a small profit to Dinamo Batumi. A move to Spain with Real Sociedad was ruled out. Paratici had originally identified him for Juventus and it is was surprise Spurs did not follow up that interest. Roma waited too long to be a viable option. The transfers are potentially going to be looked at by UEFA. Don't rule out Real Madrid, Manchester United, Arsenal or Manchester City looking at taking the player in a year or two and he has also attracted scouts from Liverpool and Juventus. Newcastle have a declared interest but a move seems unlikely. Chelsea have a solution in mind which may suit Napoli, but they are difficult to deal with. Napoli have no intention of selling and will offer a new contract - which I expect to be initially rejected. Barcelona offer a wildcard option but may have difficulty funding a move.
Julian Alvarez (F) Manchester City have told Bayern Munich and Barcelona he is not available.
Santiago Gimenez (S) Having another good season at Feyenoord and attracting interest of Chelsea, Lille, Spurs, Real Madrid, Napoli and Eintracht Frankfurt. He has become the first choice Harry Kane replacement for Spurs after they lost out on their preferred option in the summer but not first choice for Chelsea or Real Madrid - although don't discount either. Spurs have an advantage that Feyenoord are interested in a Spurs player, Barcelona may offer a wildcard option following a discussion between Deco and someone they are trying to recruit. Others, such as Marseille, Crystal Palace and West Ham can be discounted. Lille and Eintracht Frankfurt would only be viable if they make significant sales and others drop out. Cost could be pretty high - they will look for perhaps €55M - ending interest of most of these clubs. Don't discount Napoli who are planning for life after Osimhen.
Victor Boniface (S) Juventus have Boniface as a first choice Vlahovic replacement. Barcelona want him to replace Lewandowski. Having only joined last summer, Bayer Leverkusen would seek a huge profit.
Alexander Isak (S) Newcastle have no intention of selling Isak but it is likely either Isak or Bruno Guimaraes may need to be sold for financial stability to be maintained. Barcelona see Isak as a potential Lewandowski replacement. Down the list of targets for Arsenal but Spurs may offer a solution.
Thalys (S) Discussed with Chelsea during negotiations over two other players. Barcelona, Spurs, Real Madrid, Manchester City and Manchester United have all sent scouts with Manchester United and Benfica both declaring an interest with Palmeiras.
Erling Haaland (S) Team Raiola are open to negotiating with Manchester City to remove a termination clause from his contract that would allow him to leave for €200M in the summer of 2024. Real Madrid were intending to meet the clause in 2024 but will have difficulty in justifying the wages in addition to Mbappe - so it is more likely to be one or the other. Barcelona are planning a move in 2025. The player will likely want Real Madrid who are looking to clear wages still.

02 Jun 2023 11:29:37
Hi ed002 if possible can you do in and outs list? Thank you very much

{Ed002's Note - Probably needs an update, but:

Julian Araujo (RB) Move delayed until the summer but will train with Barca.
Joao Cancelo (LB) Will return to Manchester City in the summer with Mendes seeking a new club - Barcelona may offer an option but only if Balde departs, which is very unlikely.
César Azpilicueta (RB/CB) Will have a year left in the summer but if Real Madrid come calling then Chelsea will not stand in his way if he wants to leave. There are complications that could see him stay in England. Chelsea have already signed his replacement and Barcelona already have a right back arriving in the summer, so their interest will likely have gone.
Aymeric Laporte (CB) PSG will make an offer. Spurs have held a discussion with his agent. Barcelona offer an option but will need to agree sales first.
Inigo Martinez (CB) is wanted by Atletico Madrid. Out of contract in the summer. Cheap alternative to Laporte for Barcelona.
Alan Varela (DM) Boca youngster interesting Barcelona, Chelsea and Benfica. Newcastle, Liverpool and Braga have also sent scouts to watch the player. Questionable whether he would immediately be able to get a Work Permit to play in England or be an immediate first team player.
Sofyan Amrabat (DM/CM) Fiorentina were expecting to lose money on a sale but an excellent World Cup has changed that. Spurs contacted Fiorentina through a third party to take him as an Ndombele replacement in the summer, and Liverpool, Barcelona and Nice have had scouts watch him and have spoken with his representatives, but seemingly not Fiorentina yet. His representatives walked out on a meeting with Liverpool due to something Klopp said to them. Fiorentina have reported Barcelona for making a direct approach to Amrabat in January, but they remain interested. Agent has spoken with Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea as well, with Manchester United showing an interest. The player says he wants to move to Atletico Madrid and they are keen. A wildcard option will be Inter Milan who are looking to replace Brozovic and will guarantee a starting place for him.
Ruben Neves (DM/CM) Wolves would look to get €50M should Neves be sold, and they may be more accepting of that now. Mr Mourinho is a huge fan and has tried to take him to three different clubs in the past - and he would, I am sure, be interested in taking him to Roma but their focus right now is elsewhere and there is no guarantee he will be there after the summer. He was always been seen as an option to replace Matic at Manchester United, but they didn't act at the time and had other priorities to deal with first and preferred options - and now they have Casemiro. Unclear if they still might make an offer or perhaps see Nunes as more versatile. His agent has been actively offering him around and has spoken with Juventus who are looking to offload players but none that I would expect Wolves to be interested in and they have other priorities for their cash. Newcastle have a declared interest. Prior interest of Spurs and Liverpool may remain. I suspect Liverpool see Nunes as more versatile. Arsenal interest has likely gone. Chelsea have other targets. There has been a discussion with Barcelona - but there is a huge difference in valuation and they are looking at others but, if available, he could become first choice for them.
Sofyan Amrabat (DM/CM) Fiorentina were expecting to lose money on a sale but an excellent World Cup has changed that. Spurs contacted Fiorentina through a third party to take him as an Ndombele replacement in the summer, and Liverpool, Barcelona and Nice have had scouts watch him and have spoken with his representatives, but seemingly not Fiorentina yet. His repressentatives walked out on a discussion with Liverpool due to something Klopp said. Fiorentina reported Barcelona for making a direct approach to Amrabat in January but they have patched things up and something may be possible. Agent has spoken with Arsenal and Chelsea as well. The player says he wants to move to Barcelona or Atletico Madrid. A whatif answer may be PSG if they appoint Mr Mourinho as their new coach. A wildcard option will be Inter Milan who are looking to replace Brozovic and will guarantee a starting place for him.
Manuel Ugarte (DM) Moving elsewhere.
Arthur Vermeeren (DM) Barcelona have offered the well liked Royal Antwerp youngster the opportunity to join their B side. Manchester United had a long history with Royal Antwerp but would face Work Permit issues in England and would have to apply for an exception or wait until he gets a full cap.
N’golo Kante (CM) Out of contract in the summer. Of interest to Juventus. Chelsea want a new contract. Barcelona my intervene. Inter and Al Nassr offer options. Arsenal and PSG possible wildcards. Galatasaray will offer significant wages.
Thiago Alcantara (CM) His representatives have spoken to Barcelona about the player finishing his career back at the club but he would need to be very cheap and to have reduced wages. Seems unlikely.
Gabri Veiga (CM/AM) Attracting scouts from PL and La Liga. Real Madrid offer an option but the player wants to be a starter and he won't be there. Newcastle have made an offer and expect that they can complete the transfer but it seems rather unlikely, but he would be a starter. Arsenal are keen but need to make a decision about departures, so again unlikely. Barcelona will have other priorities and money issues will restrict them For Manchester United and Liverpool, an alternative to Bellingham but both are working on others. Others interested in Bellingham could also turn to him - Manchester City and Chelsea as a Mason Mount replacement. Ironically, the goals have started flowing as he has switched to CM from AM. Wildcard will eb Barcelona but they are constrained over wages. Celta Vigo will not look to sell unless relegated but will perhaps not refuse a very good offer matching his €40M release clause.
Mason Mount (CM/AM) Yet to agree a new contract and could depart if he is not more reasonable in his demands - and his demands are very significant. Real Madrid and Juventus, both via a third party, have asked after him. Juventus won't match his wage demands but they have a tax advantage, but I suspect they can be discounted unless a trade for Vlahovic, possibly including another player, could be arranged. Real Madrid are looking to move on a couple of high earners in the summer so could afford him, but it depends on departures. Manchester City have declared an interest with Chelsea during discussions over another player but they can likely be discounted. Barcelona have made a direct approach to Chelsea but the salary demands would be an issue. There is no declared interest from PSG or Bayern Munich, who are two other clubs who could afford him, although with a change of coach the situation with Bayern may change. Chelsea are rather miffed with him after making what they consider was a very good offer, and will sell in the summer if a new contract is not agreed. There is interest from Manchester United (who are in discussions with Chelsea and have already reached agreement with the player's agent) and Liverpool (who have been forced to declare an interest in Mount), probably as an alternative to Bellingham, but they would likely not want to match his wage demands. However, change of agent leads potentially to the door of Manchester United or even Arsenal.
Heung-min Son (LW/AM/F) 31 by the start of next season means age is against him. Barcelona could offer an option if the fee could be spread out and wages are reasonable. Spurs have no interest in selling and he can be forgotten.
Dani Olmo (AM/W) New contract or sold this summer with Bayern Munich, Atletico and Barcelona interested. He will sign a new contract with RBL so can be forgotten.
Marcus Thuram (S/LW) Bayern Munich interest may well have gone like the interest of Spurs which went after they added Richarlison last summer. Arsenal interest went when signing Trossard. Inter are still hovering around the player and have made an offer. Atletico will look to him as a Cunha replacement and have also. Don't discount RBL or Manchester United looking to the Free Agent. Chelsea interest has gone. Juventus, PSG and Newcastle provide wildcard options.
Joao Felix (AM/F) Heading elsewhere.
Vitor Roque (S) PSG, Chelsea and Barcelona will fight for him. Other clubs have sent scouts and both Milan and Arsenal have declared an interest.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (S) A mistake buying him - will leave to join LA City or Barcelona in the summer. His agent will look to Germany and Italy to see if other options can be found - but wages are a huge issue although the transfer fee will be modest.
Lionel Messi (F) There is a chance of a final fling with Inter Miami or Los Angeles but PSG want to extend to 2024. Barcelona are open to a return but may not be able to afford it without significant departures. The Middle East will offer less desirable options.
Neymar (F) PSG have offered Neymar to Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United and Barcelona. Player will almost certainly reject any move.


Major wage issues still.
Jordi Alba (LB) Will leave as a Free Agent walking away from the remainder of his contract to help the club out. Benfica have a declared interest.
Alejandro Balde (LWB) Barcelona do not wish to sell but coming in to the last year of his contract are concerned that negotiations for a new contract will hinge on what Mendes may ask for in terms of wages knowing that interest in the player remains for the Chelsea Vision 2030 project after attempts to sign him over the past three years failed.
Eric Garcia (CB) Surplus to immediate needs so Barcelona may look to sell.
Jules Kounde (CB) Offered by his agent to Chelsea. Barcelona don't want to sell but there are some issues the club are looking to resolve. I am not aware of any Liverpool interest but he has only been at Barcelona for a year. His agent offered him to another side for leverage because he does not want to play at RB. Will stay at Barcelona.
Clement Lenglet (CB) Not worked out and will likely return to Barcelona in the summer to be sold on.
Sergio Busquets (DM/CM) Has an offer from Inter Miami. Free Agent.
Franck Kessie (CM) Not working out - available. Inter or Spurs may offer a solution.
Frenkie de Jong (CM) Barcelona didn't really want to sell last summer although if a significant offer (perhaps €80M) were made, their financial situation would mean they would have had to consider it and the hierarchy accept that removing his very significant wages from the books would free up space to register other players. Player wanted to stay and had no interest in moving to Manchester United. Again, this summer Barcelona will be open to a significant offer and ten Hag would certainly be open to taking the player but the player has no interest in a move. Huge wages and will likely end up staying.
Gavi (CM/AM) Chelsea see Gavi as a potential Mason Mount replacement but Barcelona could block a move demanding his full buy out clause Cheslea have a declared interest with his club and would likely be willing to pay €100M and completely put aside interest in Bellingham who they had concerns about. Talks with his agents identified a significant signing on fee being required. The leading advisor to Chelsea is urging to club to push ahead - the same advisor was advocating a Spanish coach. Bayern Munich may offer a wildcard option. Barcelona will attempt to solve their Salary Cap issues and keep hold of the player. The player will not want to leave.
Raphinha (RW/LW) Has struggled to displace Dembele or Ansu Fati on a regular basis and will be sold if Barcelona can recover the fee they paid for him, else they will keep him. Newcastle may be an option. Even Arsenal perhaps.
Ferran Torres (LW) Getting game time but Barcelona will be open to offers. Chelsea and Juventus have sent scouts but Chelsea opted for another and Juve are re-evaluation their plans after penalties. Has been offered to Newcastle, who may be interested and will be offered to others.
Abde Ezzalzouli (LW) Surplus to immediate needs so Barcelona may look to another loan. Scouts from Chelsea and Monaco have watched him but it may be difficult to obtain a Work Permit for England unless paying over the odds. Bayer Leverkusen provide an attractive option.
Ansu Fati (LW/F) Chelsea interest has moved on after signing Mudryk although Jorge Mendes has been knocking on their door. Interest of Manchester City, Juventus and Manchester United will depend on Barcelona making a decision about keeping the injury prone Fati or finding a suitable replacement - and I suspect they will let him leave at the right price. Offered to Juventus and PSG as well. Bayern Munich offer an attractive option but are concerned about injury status. Expect him to leave if they can raise €70M or so - a suggestion of a part exchange with Wolves for Neves will not suit the player. Wolves offer a viable but less likely option.
Ilias Akhomach (F) Will move from Barcelona to Arsenal or Leeds if they can get clearance for the youngster. Milan and Seville offer options if clearance cannot be obtained.

14 Mar 2023 06:29:58
Dear Ed002, Is there any truth in Gavis contract being cancelled? What's the noise around this?

{Ed002's Note - The noise is you don't understand - his contract has not been cancelled.}

14 Mar 2023 18:50:17
Thanks Ed002, just trying to better understand the situation. I don't understand it hence seeking advice from an expert.

{Ed002's Note - It is not a problem - it is to do with the timing of his registration for the team that is the issue - and being disputed.}

12 Jan 2023 10:08:28
Hi Ed002, What do you make of rumoours that Barcelona are open to selling Ferran Torres, Raphina and Ansu Fati this window, Any truth to it? Which players are available from Barcelona in this window?

Thanks as always!
#COYG

{Ed002's Note - I have no idea about the rumours but Raphinha has not been able to dislodge others in the team and the club will listed to offers, perhaps in the summer, Fati was subject of a discussion with an English side in a convoluted exchange deal but it can be discounted. Torres won’t be available this month. Jessie could be available at the right price, but perhaps the summer is more likely. Roberto is out of contract in the summer - they would listen to offers now. Depay is available. I don’t see de Jong moving before the summer.}

12 Aug 2022 13:02:50
HI Ed, hope all is well. Have Barcelona registered all their new players? Is the rumour that if they can't/don't they could become free agents?

Cheers and happy weekend

{Ed002's Note - No, they are Barcelona players. They will all be registered.}

12 Aug 2022 16:39:26
Thanks so much for the reply and direct answer!

03 Aug 2022 12:12:26
Hello Ed002
Could you provide an update on Frenkie De Jong please?

{Ed002's Note - Frenkie de Jong (CM) Barcelona don't really want to sell although if a significant offer (perhaps €80M) were made, their financial situation would mean they would have to consider it and the hierarchy except that removing his very significant wages from the books would free up space to register other players. He was seen as a Tolisso upgrade for Bayern Munich but they had already committed to another. During discussions between Barcelona and Chelsea options for a number of players were discussed but Chelsea do not again want protracted negotiations which led nowhere over another player last summer - they may make a take it or leave it offer including a player or perhaps two, and that may suit Barcelona. Manchester City may provide another solution using Laporte or Silva as part of the deal - and don't be surprised if PSG switch their attention to him, but they have preferred targets. Manchester United did switch their attention to de Jong but have failed to persuade the player to join them - and it would be a hard sell for MU without Champions League, although no doubt having a coach he knows well will help. Manchester United are still talking to Barcelona about the player but at some point will revert to other ideas as his "agent" has told Barcelona he will not be leaving to join Manchester United and they do not want to negotiate a new contract. His agent has spoken again with Chelsea and Manchetser City and Barcelona are still talking to Chelsea about others but difficulties are arising. Therefore, he may well stay where he is.}

21 Jul 2022 21:04:38
Hi Ed, could you give a little update on Kounde? It seems like it’s potentially now either Barcelona or Chelsea he will be moving too?

{Ed002's Note - I think that is a fair summary.}

21 Jul 2022 21:58:31
Thanks ed, not sure if it’s the correct terminology but would you say Chelsea are more advanced in negotiations with Sevilla or the player?

09 Jul 2022 15:03:11
Hello Ed,
Who is the player that Barcelona are set to announce the departure of imminently?

{Ed002's Note - Lenglet.}

10 Jul 2022 08:50:11
Thank you Ed002. What is the situation now with De Jong? When does this never ending story, end?

{Ed002's Note - Frenkie de Jong (CM) Tolisso upgrade for Bayern Munich but Barcelona don't want to sell although if a significant offer (perhaps €90M) were made, their financial situation would mean they would have to consider it. There is a chance that a deal involving Lewandowski and cash could see something happen. During discussions between Barcelona and Chelsea, options for a number of players were discussed but Chelsea do not again want protracted negotiations which led nowhere over another player last summer - they may make a take it or leave it offer including a player or perhaps two. Manchester City may provide another solution using Laporte or Silva as part of the deal - and don't be surprised if PSG switch their attention to him but have preferred targets. Manchester United did switch their attention to de Jong but have failed to make an acceptable offer to Barcelona - and it would be a hard sell for MU without Champions League, although no doubt having a coach he knows well will help. Manchester United are still talking to Barcelona about the player but at some point will revert to other ideas. And he may well stay where he is.}

10 Jul 2022 13:00:42
Thank you - so nothing has changed?

{Ed002's Note - At this time no.}

11 Jul 2022 18:56:36
Mourtagh and arnold have been in Barcelona today so hopefully we'll get some positive news in the next couple of days i don't think arnold is usually at these kinds of meetings so could be an indication things are getting serious but i don't know.

{Ed002's Note - I would wait a day or two before holding your breath.}

11 Jul 2022 21:16:08
Well hopefully there will be a resolution one way or another soon based on that then ed.

I did wonder there has been a lot of talk surrounding this deal about the deffered wages of de jong and Barcelona wanting him to reduce his wage if his is to stay at barca.

It seems very strange as he is supposed to get paid a large amount over the next 2 years i believe to get this back my question is isn't that a rather questionable thing for Barcelona to do for me it would look a lot like Barcelona asking the player to write off a loan.

I understand the drop would probably be for his basic wage and then they might look to spread the cost of the deffered wages across the contract to make it impact less over the next 2 years and look more professional but it seems a very bad practice to put yourself in?

If i'm completley wrong just say its seems a very big mess.

13 Jul 2022 09:48:12
Good morning Ed002. Did Mourtagh and Arnold make progress?

{Ed002's Note - There is no final agreement.}

13 Jul 2022 12:56:43
So some things have been agreed?

{Ed002's Note - Yes.}

13 Jul 2022 13:27:39
Good job i checked this ed i was about to start holding my breath lol.

The lads just needs a chill in amsterdam clear the cobwebs get their mojo going again before another crack in Barcelona thursday maybe friday haha.

13 Jul 2022 14:09:30
The move to United looking more likely now then Ed002?

{Ed002's Note - No.}

13 Jul 2022 14:21:30
I’m confused ????

{Ed002's Note - The player has no interest in dropping down a level or two.}

14 Jul 2022 11:35:33
Surely the player has spoken to ETH and given some sort of assurances that he would be open to a move over to United, otherwise why do they persist?

14 Jul 2022 18:23:13
Thinking it might be time to start holding my breath now ed?

{Ed002's Note - Perhaps tomorrow - in time for the weekend.}

14 Jul 2022 23:59:50
Hahaha cheers ed

24 Jun 2022 15:16:54
To the brilliant Ed002.
Are you able to provide an update on the Frenkie De Jong situation or has nothing changed still?

{Ed002's Note - Nothing has changed at all.}

24 Jun 2022 18:15:23
Will Manchester United make a bid deemed good enough?

{Ed002's Note - I really cannot answer that - but there is a fear that the club will lose out on their original primary target so they may end up paying more than they want. Vey amateurish.}

04 Jul 2022 15:46:14
Is the original primary target Segej Milinkovic Savic Ed002?

{Ed002's Note - Yes.}

16 Jun 2022 14:39:28
Greetings Editors - do you expect Frenkie De Jong to depart Barcelona this Summer and if so, where do you suspect he will end up?

{Ed002's Note - Frenkie de Jong (CM) Tolisso upgrade for Bayern Munich but Barcelona don't want to sell although if a significant offer (perhaps €90M) were made, their financial situation would mean they would have to consider it. There is a chance that a deal involving Lewandowski and cash could see something happen. During discussions between Barcelona and Chelsea, options for a number of players were discussed but Chelsea do not again want protracted negotiations which led nowhere over another player last summer - they may make a take it or leave it offer including a player or perhaps two, but I very much doubt it. Manchester City may provide another solution using Laporte or Silva as part of the deal - and don't be surprised if PSG and/or Manchester United switch their attention to him but both have preferred targets and it would be a hard sell for MU without Champions League, although no doubt having a coach he knows well will help. Manchester United are talking to Barcelona about the player but at some point will revert to other ideas. And he could yet stay where he is.}

16 Jun 2022 18:40:19
Cheers for the comprehensive response.