Barcelona President Joan Laporta talks about the club’s transfer strategy, highlighting Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo as top targets, emphasizing there won’t be any major outgoing transfers

Jules Kounde’s remarkable season and commitment to fitness, demonstrated by his post-match gym sessions, along with contributions from players like Inigo Martinez and Sergi Roberto, highlight the collective effort at Barcelona. The squad’s dynamics depend on the coach’s decisions regarding adjustments, especially with contracts ending, loan returns like Ansu Fati’s, and players expressing a desire to leave. Flick and Deco are tasked with shaping the squad, including transfers, physical preparation, internal discipline rules, and training schedules, subject to board approval amid the club’s transition to financial stability.

While it’s been widely discussed that Barcelona needs a significant sale to comply with salary limits and facilitate signings, figures like Frenkie de Jong and Ronald Araujo have been mentioned for potential departures. However, as of now, it’s not imperative. Addressing a contractual issue with a prospective partner could provide spending flexibility without constraints. Ongoing deals are also bolstering sponsorship, demonstrating the club’s commitment to financial responsibility and gratitude for the patience of the fans. This concerted effort, along with a sense of assurance, warrants a cautious approach rather than hasty decisions.

Regarding loanees Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo, Laporta affirmed that Sporting Director Deco is actively negotiating to extend the stay of both the Atletico Madrid forward and the Manchester City full-back.

“We’re keen on having them for another season. Deco is handling it, and we’ve received positive feedback from Flick, who views them as significant assets. He already had them in mind during his time at Bayern. I’m pleased with Joao Felix’s quality and impressed by Ferran’s commitment whenever he’s been fit, as well as Lewandowski’s contributions. While individually I’m satisfied with everyone, collectively, things haven’t gone as smoothly.”

“We’ve faced numerous injuries, affecting players like Gavi, Pedri, Frenkie, Araujo, and Balde. Additionally, refereeing decisions haven’t been in our favor. There’s been a concerted effort to discredit Barcelona, fostering hostility in stadiums, and referee rulings have often disadvantaged us, such as Lamine’s goal at the Bernabeu. Luck hasn’t always been on our side, like in the PSG match with Araujo’s red card. Despite these challenges, we can take pride in our youth development; we have exceptional young talents.”

While acknowledging the performances of Andreas Christensen and the potential of Marc Casado, Laporta conceded they’re seeking a midfielder to succeed Sergio Busquets.

“Christensen, though not explicitly mentioned, has deputized as a defensive midfielder, but we recognize the need for reinforcement in that position. Players from Barça Atletic, like Marc Casado, who’s enjoying a fantastic season, will also be considered. Our squad is well-rounded, and with talents from the youth team, we can address certain positions. Let’s prioritize stability, responsibility, and our path toward economic recovery.”

Jules Kounde’s remarkable season and commitment to fitness, demonstrated by his post-match gym sessions, along with contributions from players like Inigo Martinez and Sergi Roberto, highlight the collective effort at Barcelona. The squad’s dynamics depend on the coach’s decisions regarding adjustments, especially with contracts ending, loan returns like Ansu Fati’s, and players expressing a desire to leave. Flick and Deco are tasked with shaping the squad, including transfers, physical preparation, internal discipline rules, and training schedules, subject to board approval amid the club’s transition to financial stability.

While it’s been widely discussed that Barcelona needs a significant sale to comply with salary limits and facilitate signings, figures like Frenkie de Jong and Ronald Araujo have been mentioned for potential departures. However, as of now, it’s not imperative. Addressing a contractual issue with a prospective partner could provide spending flexibility without constraints. Ongoing deals are also bolstering sponsorship, demonstrating the club’s commitment to financial responsibility and gratitude for the patience of the fans. This concerted effort, along with a sense of assurance, warrants a cautious approach rather than hasty decisions.

Regarding loanees Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo, Laporta affirmed that Sporting Director Deco is actively negotiating to extend the stay of both the Atletico Madrid forward and the Manchester City full-back.

“We’re keen on having them for another season. Deco is handling it, and we’ve received positive feedback from Flick, who views them as significant assets. He already had them in mind during his time at Bayern. I’m pleased with Joao Felix’s quality and impressed by Ferran’s commitment whenever he’s been fit, as well as Lewandowski’s contributions. While individually I’m satisfied with everyone, collectively, things haven’t gone as smoothly.”

“We’ve faced numerous injuries, affecting players like Gavi, Pedri, Frenkie, Araujo, and Balde. Additionally, refereeing decisions haven’t been in our favor. There’s been a concerted effort to discredit Barcelona, fostering hostility in stadiums, and referee rulings have often disadvantaged us, such as Lamine’s goal at the Bernabeu. Luck hasn’t always been on our side, like in the PSG match with Araujo’s red card. Despite these challenges, we can take pride in our youth development; we have exceptional young talents.”

While acknowledging the performances of Andreas Christensen and the potential of Marc Casado, Laporta conceded they’re seeking a midfielder to succeed Sergio Busquets.

“Christensen, though not explicitly mentioned, has deputized as a defensive midfielder, but we recognize the need for reinforcement in that position. Players from Barça Atletic, like Marc Casado, who’s enjoying a fantastic season, will also be considered. Our squad is well-rounded, and with talents from the youth team, we can address certain positions. Let’s prioritize stability, responsibility, and our path toward economic recovery.”


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