Barcelona is hoping that several players, particularly those on the outskirts, will leave the club this summer, but it may not be as easy as they would like.
As the Catalan club looks to adhere to LaLiga's salary cap rules while also having the option of bringing in some new blood, it is critical that they move on some high earners in order to create some financial wiggle room.
However, some players are unwilling to take a step back from Barcelona, whether in terms of performance or finances.
Several players have expressed a desire to stay at Camp Nou already this summer, even if it means creating a potentially awkward situation down the line.
Martin Braithwaite and Pjanic
This is evident in the cases of Martin Braithwaite and Pjanic for example.
The Danish forward made only five appearances for Barcelona in the 2021/22 season, totaling 248 minutes on the pitch, with the majority of those coming during Ronald Koeman's tenure as manager.
Braithwaite has been an afterthought since returning from injury since Xavi Hernandez was named head coach.
However, with Denmark manager Kasper Hjulmand warning Braithwaite that his place in the World Cup squad is jeopardized if he does not play, he may be forced to make some difficult decisions.
Pjanic, meanwhile, believes he can prove to Xavi that he has something to offer after being shunned during Koeman's spell.
While the concept is sound in theory, Barcelona are already planning on the basis of his sizeable salary being off the wage bill.
Sergino Dest
Sergino Dest is another player Barcelona is interested in, but he prefers to stay in Catalonia.
The 21-year-old is confident that he can earn Xavi's trust, but if the Blaugrana begin to bring in other defenders, he may have to reconsider his position, especially with the World Cup in November approaching.
Neto
For several summers, Neto has been linked with a move away from Barcelona, but he has always remained.
The Brazilian goalkeeper is in the final year of his contract at Camp Nou, so he may try to extend it for another year before leaving on a free transfer.
Samuel Umtiti
Barcelona has been trying to get rid of Samuel Umtiti for years, as his high salary and inability to play due to injuries has become a major issue.
The French defender ended up doing Barcelona a favor by restructuring his contract in January, allowing the club to bring in Ferran Torres, but the deal meant that he was tied to the club for a longer period of time, albeit at a lower salary.
Umtiti is open to leaving, but it is dependent on where. If no major clubs bid for him, he will almost certainly remain a Barcelona player next season.
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