FC Barcelona shifts transfer strategy as summer window closes

FC Barcelona is shifting its transfer strategy as the summer window nears its close. Following failed attempts to secure striker Julián Álvarez from Atlético de Madrid and Lautaro Martínez from Inter Milan, sporting director Deco and manager Hansi Flick have decided not to sign a new centre-forward. The club will instead rely on existing options, such as Raphinha and Fermín López, potentially utilizing them in 'false nine' roles.

While the search for a striker has been halted, the club remains active in the defensive market. Barcelona is prioritizing the signing of a young, left-footed centre-back with strong distribution and buildup abilities to partner with Pau Cubarsí.

Financially, the club has generated approximately 8 million euros through the sales of La Masia talents Álvaro Cortés to Royal Antwerp and Toni Fernández to Venezia. The club has retained buy-back and sell-on clauses for both players. Other notable summer arrivals include Rodri, Karim Adeyemi, Anthony Gordon, and goalkeeper Dominik Livaković. Meanwhile, player Gavi is expected to return to training following a knee injury sustained in a recent match.