Many different operations will need to be conducted by FC Barcelona in the summer. La Blaugrana, if they truly wish for a revamp, will have to make difficult decisions to fund their ideal ones. However, not every operation will be void of complications for Barcelona.
The Catalan giants need to raise adequate revenue in order to redirect it towards other projects. With many profiles yet to be invested in, Barcelona need to back them up with the right financial budget so that actual arrivals can come into the team during the transfer window.
Two names that continue to be linked away from the club, consequently, are those of Ronald Araujo and Joao Felix. The first name, a captain and starting defender for the club, is mainly being considered because of his recent lapses of judgment that proved to be crucial in wrecking Barça’s season.
Then comes the second name of Felix, who continues to be one of the most under-utilized assets at the club. As a result, Barça could choose to let his loan end as he would simply go back to Atletico Madrid.
Thus, as highlighted by SPORT, it was not surprising to see Xavi Hernandez be asked about the future of both players in his recent press conference ahead of the game against Almeria.
Speaking about Araujo first, the Barcelona head coach had this to say: “I talk to Ronald very often, even today. He knows perfectly well what I think of him, and I always do it honestly and sincerely. He knows what I expect and wish for his future from my part.”
Then, when talking about the Portuguese forward on loan from Atletico Madrid, the Barça manager said the following about Joao Felix:
“He has helped us a lot, but he has competition. Raphinha is in great shape, as well as Robert and Lamine. He has been important, and he has to be until the end of the season.”
It remains to be seen if any major sale actually ends up taking place for Barcelona in the summer. However, given their rather big aspirations for recruitment, it seems unlikely that they would be able to go about pursuing their targets without making some necessary sacrifices.
