Despite signing several players across the last two summer transfer windows, Barcelona still have a ton of gaping holes to fill in their squad. The financial restrictions posed on them have caused a ton of problems, which meant signing players was a huge hassle.
During the 2023 summer transfer window, Barça signed Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo on loan to plug holes in attack and defence, while also bringing in Inigo Martinez and Ilkay Gundogan on free transfers.
In fact, the only move that cost them money was the signing of Oriol Romeu, who was brought in from Girona for €3.5 million.
The Spaniard has had a mix of excellent and some poor performances so far this season, but either way, is far from a long-term solution to Barcelona’s problems.
As such, they are keeping tabs on five players in that position in the hopes of signing one in the summer, according to a report from SPORT.
Bruno Guimaraes | Newcastle United
One of the best players in this role, Bruno Guimaraes was the first big signing by Newcastle United after their Saudi Arabia takeover in 2022.
The Brazilian is a regular feature for the Magpies and the Brazilian national team, and will not be an easy acquisition by any margin, especially with Newcastle in the Champions League this season.
Recent reports have stated, though, that the player is crazy about signing for Barcelona, and has a special clause in his contract that will allow him to leave Newcastle for around €65 million if the Catalans came knocking.
Gabriel Moscardo | Corinthians
Having established himself a starter fo Corinthians in the Brasileiro Serie A over the second half of the campaign, Gabriel Moscardo has now attracted the interest of top clubs such as Barcelona and Chelsea.
The 18-year-old is known for his command of the pivot position, and is stylistically and financially a better fit for Barça.
Guido Rodriguez | Real Betis
Back in the rumours. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
Barcelona’s interest in Real Betis’ Guido Rodriguez is by no means new, as the Argentine was linked to a move to the Catalans in January and June 2023, as well.
Soon to be a free-agent, Rodriguez has been a subject of exit rumours for a while, even though Betis have publicly expressed their desire to extend his contract.
“We will talk in a few months, but we are in constant conversations with the club. They know what I want and I think we understand each other,” he said when asked about his future.
Sergi Altimira | Real Betis
Guido’s deputy, Altimira is also on the radar of Barcelona. At 22, he would be a long-term bet compared to his teammate, and also fits the profile of the player the club is searching for.
The Spaniard also spent a part of his youth career at La Masia, and is well-versed with the philosophy of the club.
He has played just three games so far this season, but could prove to be much more important for Betis moving forward during this hectic season.
Arthur Vermeeren | Royal Antwerp
Another player Barcelona fans have seen pop up during transfer rumours is Royal Antwerp’s Arthur Vermeeren. The Belgian international has several top clubs on his trails after an impressive breakthrough season last year.
The blaugranes have excellent reports on Vermeeren, and will be looking to hold talks with his camp and Antwerp soon if they want to beat their competition to his signature.