Barcelona have identified three key areas for reinforcement in the upcoming summer transfer window, though their financial flexibility for next season remains uncertain. Their primary focus is on securing a striker, followed by a central defender. Depending on the remaining budget, the club may also seek a left winger.
The left-wing position has been a subject of much discussion over the last six months, with Marcus Rashford currently occupying it. Barcelona hold a €30 million buy option for Rashford, who has expressed his desire to stay at his current club. However, it appears unlikely that the Catalan giants will exercise this option. Simultaneously, Manchester United has shown little willingness to negotiate this price downwards, diminishing Rashford’s prospects of remaining in the same role next season.
Consequently, Barcelona have been exploring more economical alternatives, including players like Andreas Schjelderup, Ez Abde, and Jan Virgili. According to reports from MD, the Blaugrana made an inquiry about Abde last week, investigating the feasibility of a move for the winger this summer.
Abde has been strongly linked with a transfer in recent months, following his impressive performances for Real Betis this season. Reports suggest that Aston Villa and Newcastle United have also expressed interest. Previously, a valuation of €25-35 million has been mentioned for the Moroccan winger, who is under contract until 2029 and possesses a release clause of €60 million.
Barcelona originally sold Abde to Betis three years ago for €7.5 million, retaining a 50% sell-on clause. Betis subsequently recovered an additional 30% of his sale percentage through their loan of Vitor Roque, but Barcelona still retains a 20% sell-on fee, which would function as a discount in their favor should they re-sign him. However, recent reports indicate that Abde has reservations about returning to Camp Nou, as he prioritizes securing a starting position, something he anticipates would be difficult to achieve given the competition from Raphinha.