Barcelona have always been heralded as one of the biggest attractions in world football. La Blaugrana have been home to some of the biggest names that the sport has to offer. From Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Neymar Jr to the likes of Robert Lewandowski and more, Barcelona has always had their share of great stars.
However, time and reality can often be a cruel reminder of the fact that nothing is eternal. Given their financial struggles and economical limitations, Barcelona can no longer pursue the biggest names in football. Despite the opportunities that come up, Barça ultimately can no longer compete financially, at least right now.
Consequently, it is to be expected that Barcelona will not be pursuing global superstars any time soon. Still, curiosity lingers and questions are asked. Thus, one journalist asked Xavi about the possibility of Barcelona pursuing the likes of Erling Haaland or Kylian Mbappe.
Xavi’s reply in his press conference, as highlighted by AS, was nothing short of straightforward and clear. Acknowledging the team’s dire financial situation, the Barcelona coach made it clear that the club will focus on their own players:
“Haaland or Mbappé? I’ll stay with the players I have. And also in the situation the club is in, we cannot think of signings of this caliber.”
In an ideal world, Barcelona would have the ability to pursue such signings. They would greatly help a club currently in need of reconstruction and recruitment. However, the truth is that Barça should not even dream of such signings as of right now.
Erling Haaland, currently well settled at Manchester City, would prefer remaining where he currently is. Moreover, the Norwegian striker has a market value of €180 million, making him the joint-highest valued player in the world right now. Furthermore, he is contracted to the Citizens until 2027.
Kylian Mbappe, on the other hand, has been linked more frequently to FC Barcelona. This is primarily due to the fact that his contract with PSG expires this summer in 2024. Sharing Haaland’s value of €180 million, he would otherwise be inconceivable as a transfer target for Barcelona. However, his future destination remains quite unclear.
