By selling a stake in Barcelona Studios, the club could secure the finances necessary for reinforcing the squad in the upcoming summer transfer window. This move would also aid in offsetting the revenue loss resulting from the club’s relocation to the Montjuic Olympic Stadium with a capacity of 55,926 seats for the 2023/24 season.
According to recent reports from Marca, the Catalan giants are considering many financial solutions, including the potential sale of a 24% stake in Barcelona Studios to help fund Messi’s return and solve the Financial Fair Play complications. Last season, the Spanish giants sold a 25% share of Barcelona Studios to Orpheus Media, this outlet generated over €100 million for the club.
For overcoming their financial crisis, Barcelona have opted for such coping strategies in the recent past as well. Last summer, the debt-ridden Catalan giants offloaded 15% of their La Liga TV revenue to American investment firm Sixth Street in two installments, a collective deal of €400 million. These strategic financial maneuvers helped fund the transfers of star players Raphinha, Kounde, and Lewandowski.
After a conditional shift at La Blaugrana, the upper hierarchy is considering selling the remaining 24% stake in Barcelona Studio, envisioning that the transaction could bring in €150 million to finance Messi’s return in the summer. If this realizes, Barcelona will collectively give away 49% control of its production hub, that’s the maximum percentage permitted by the shareholders.
The Blaugranes will encounter an obstacle in their quest to cash in the remaining stake in Barcelona Studios, as they require the go-ahead from Jaume Roures, as his company, Orpheus, currently holds 25% of the shares, granting them a considerable executive role within the organization.
The emotional return of the world’s best player paired with Xavi’s vision for Barcelona does make the future look good. However, it’s a gigantic task for the Catalan club and a test of their ability to navigate these challenges successfully.
