News Focus
- Barcelona have turned down offers to sign two major European stars without transfer fees
- Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva and Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic were both offered to the Catalan club
- The Spanish side believes their midfield is already strong and view Vlahovic as a backup option only
- Sporting Director Deco is taking a selective approach after gaining more flexibility in the wage budget
- The club aims to recruit specific targets to strengthen their Champions League challenge
Barcelona are planning their busiest summer transfer window in four years. The Spanish giants are finally able to spend more money after years of strict financial limits. They activated several economic levers in 2022, and now La Liga has suggested they may return to standard financial rules this season.
This extra flexibility allows Sporting Director Deco to choose his targets with care. The club needs new players after the exit of veteran striker Robert Lewandowski. They also want to build a squad capable of winning the Champions League.
However, the Catalan side has said no to two high-profile free transfers. Manchester City midfielder Bernardo Silva was available without a fee after announcing he will leave the English club. Reports claim the Portuguese player strongly wanted to join Barcelona, but the club rejected the proposal. They feel their midfield department already has enough quality.
Juventus forward Dusan Vlahovic also received a negative response. The Serbian striker is out of contract this summer and reportedly offered to join for a lower salary. Barcelona declined because he is not their main target. They might only consider him if other deals fall through.
The Nou Camp side is focusing on specific positions rather than signing players simply because they cost nothing. Manager Hansi Flick wants precise reinforcements to compete at the highest level next season.