Barcelona president Joan Laporta spoke about some interesting transfer topics during his interview with RAC1. He ruled out several signings for the upcoming summer transfer window, but also confirmed two heavily rumoured targets. Here are all the topics discussed.
Confirmed new signings
Laporta mentioned a centre-back and a midfielder joining the club soon. Franck Kessie will be joining the club from AC Milan, while Andreas Christensen is the centre-back in question. He will be joining the club from Chelsea.
Rumoured targets for Barcelona
Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland have been consistently rumoured to be targeted for the Blaugrana this summer. But, Joan Laporta ruled out big money signings involving both of them. He also didn’t confirm talks with Mohamed Salah or Robert Lewandowski despite increasing reports of Barcelona being a potential destination for both of them.
Laporta did, however, confirm that Raphinha is among the players the club is looking at. They are working with Deco, his agent, who is also Barcelona’s South American scout to finalise the signing.
Contract extensions
Ronald Araujo and Gavi are in talks with the board for a contract renewal with the club. The two youngsters are on contracts that expire soon. And following Laporta’s statement, there is optimism surrounding the idea that it is only a matter of time before they have new deals.
Ousmane Dembele will have to accept a pay cut to stay on at Barcelona. The previous offer made to him is still on the table. But, he is yet to communicate his final decision to the club as to whether he will stay or leave.
