Barcelona identify six-man transfer shortlist as “Joaos” strategy to be replicated in 2024

SANT JOAN DESPI, SPAIN - SEPTEMBER 02: Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix pose for the media as they are unveiled as new FC Barcelona players at Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper on September 02, 2023 in Sant Joan Despi, Spain. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Barcelona had a very productive summer transfer window. Five players were signed for the first team, with only Oriol Romeu having money spent on him – and that was a rather minimal amount.

Two impressive deals that Barcelona managed to pull off saw Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix – the pair are commonly referred to as the “Joaos” – sign on loan from Manchester City and Atletico Madrid respectively.

Both Cancelo and Felix were out of favour at their parent clubs before making the move to Catalonia, and Barcelona were able to take advantage of that. As per MD, they are hoping to replicate the strategy next summer, with six players being considered in this regard.

Matthijs de Ligt appears to be out of favour at Bayern Munich, and would be an excellent option to reinforce Barcelona’s defensive options. Jadon Sancho is in an even more precarious situation at Manchester United, and he is another possible target.

Jorginho, Nico Williams and Anthony Martial see their contracts expire at Arsenal, Athletic Club and Man United respectively next summer, and Barcelona could make their move as the free agent market is one that they have been very active in.

Kai Havertz has made a tough start to life at Arsenal, and if the Premier League despite to move on from him in 2024, Barcelona could look to take advantage. The German international could occupy a similar role to the one that Felix has currently.

It is a clever strategy for Barcelona to follow considering their financial issues. They need to save money any way how, and they hope to do so while improving their squad.

Image via Alex Caparros/Getty Images

Tags Anthony Martial Barcelona Jadon Sancho Jorginho Kai Havertz Matthijs de Ligt Nico Williams
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