Barcelona racing against time to dump the deadwood before the transfer window closes

With the start of the La Liga season underway and just over a week left before the transfer window closes, Barcelona are in a race against time to finalise the squad for the season. 

The club has already secured the signings of Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor, but there is still work to be done. The focus for this week is not just on bringing in new talent but also on resolving the departures of players who do not fit into Hansi Flick’s plans. 

Crucial time for three players

The three players in question are Clement Lenglet, Vitor Roque, and Mikayil Faye.

Among the trio, Lenglet appears to be the closest to an exit. He has reached an advanced agreement with Atletico Madrid. However, FC Barcelona still need to finalise the deal and come to terms with Atletico. 

This is proving to be a tricky negotiation, as if an agreement can’t be reached, Lenglet might consider staying at Barça, but without extending his contract, which would leave the club in a difficult situation.

Clement Lenglet has an agreement with Atletico Madrid. (Photo by SAMUEL CORUM/AFP via Getty Images)

Roque is another player whose future at Barcelona is uncertain. The Brazilian striker has expressed his desire to stay in Spain, but this may not align with the club’s plans. 

While Roque is keen to remain in La Liga, there is interest from other clubs, notably Real Betis, where Roque would be happy to move. This puts Barcelona in a delicate position as they weigh their options regarding the young forward.

Lastly, the situation with Faye seems to be the most straightforward. Rennes have come forward with a €10 million offer, plus additional variables, for the Senegalese centre-back. 

The French team is currently leading the race, and if all goes well, the transfer could be completed in the coming days. Faye’s move appears to be the clearest path out of the club, which would help Barcelona free up space and resources for further reinforcements.

As the transfer window draws to a close, Barcelona’s sporting management is working tirelessly to ensure that the squad is optimised both in terms of quality and financial sustainability.

The sooner they finalise these exits, the easier it would be for them to register Dani Olmo and others.