The January transfer window is going to start in less than two weeks, but how much business FC Barcelona can undertake in this market will depend on their Financial Fair Play status.
Vitor Roque is confirmed to join with the squad in January, but Barcelona would need €40 million pending from the German Libero Group or any other party with whom the club comes to an agreement.
Thus, while the club’s plans for the winter market can change, there are five key components identified by Mundo Deportivo that will determine their business in January:
Signing an aggressive midfielder:
Gavi has been ruled out for the rest of the season as he tore his ACL while on international duty with the Spanish national team. As a result, Barcelona will be looking to sign an aggressive midfielder if their financial fair play condition allows it.
The Catalans have shortlisted several names for such a role, who can arrive on loan, with or without the option to purchase, including, Thomas Partey, Renato Sanches, Kalvin Phillips, and Andrey Santos.
Araujo not for sale:
The defender Ronald Araujo has been linked strongly with Bayern Munich in the last few weeks. However, neither the player nor Barcelona are convinced to part ways and the Catalan club considers him to be an untouchable part of their squad, irrespective of how much money Bayern offer for him.
Lewandowski not on the market either:
Robert Lewandowski has been in poor form for several months now, but the Catalans are not considering a departure for him in the winter window. The Catalans believe the experience and quality of the Pole will be essential for Barcelona in the business end of the season, and also want him to impart his experience to Vitor Roque, who will arrive in January.
No departures in January:
Barcelona have a relatively short squad for the current season, with only 19 first-team players. Thus, the Catalans are particularly reluctant to part with any player, even those who have played sparsely up to now.
Xavi will remain until the end of the season:
Laporta and the club administration have ratified their trust in Xavi, even after the turbulent last few weeks. Barcelona believes Xavi will be able to lead the team to titles once again, just as he did last season.
