Barcelona are reportedly planning to use Sergi Roberto as a midfielder next season, with Hector Bellerin and Nelson Semedo potential right-backs.
According to Mundo Deportivo, New Barca boss Ernesto Valverde has made the signing of a new right-back a priority as he “will count on” Sergi Roberto as a central midfielder.
Despite being a midfielder by trade, the youth graduate has spent the last two seasons playing on the right of the Catalans’ back four, more so in 2016-17 due to Dani Alves’ departure and Aleix Vidal’s ankle injury.
MD explains the Blaugrana will open talks with Bellerin “imminently”, although Arsenal are demanding €50m for the 22-year-old.
Consequently, Barca have a ‘Plan B’ in Benfica’s Semedo, with Portuguese outlets A Bola and Record suggesting the two clubs are already in “advanced negotiations”.
However, like Bellerin, the 23-year-old is valued at €50m by his club, and it is this “inflated” market that may hinder Barca’s transfer activity this summer.
