Barcelona went on to win La Liga despite their humiliating midweek exit from the Copa del Rey at the hands of arch-rivals Real Madrid.
Xavi plans to make big changes at Barcelona this summer and Lionel Messi could return (Image:
RECEIVE)
Barcelona manager Xavi is reportedly aiming for five summer signings by the end of the season, with Lionel Messi's proposal to return to Catalonia from Paris Saint-Germain seen as a 'freeze' on the cake'. The Spaniard has overseen major improvements this season in his first full campaign since being appointed in November 2021.
After missing out on the La Liga title to rivals Real Madrid last season, Barca returned with a vengeance as they trailed the leaders by 12 points despite a humiliating 4-0 loss in midweek to Los Angeles. Blancos in Copa del Rey.
However, despite Barcelona's upcoming success, Xavi is still hunting for additional reinforcements despite the club's financial difficulties. Barca need to over-fund through player sales to maintain FFP compliance, but Spanish journalist Javi Miguel claims there are five positions of interest.
It is understood that a new right-back is one of the key areas on the agenda as centre-back Jules Kounde has been out of position all season.
Elche CF v FC Barcelona - LaLiga Santander
Xavi wants to bring in 5 summer signings at the end of the season (Image:
Getty)
Former Tottenham star Juan Foyth, who shone at Villarreal, remains of interest alongside Benjamin Pavard and Thomas Meunier.
At centre-back, Xavi wants more depth and Athletic Bilbao's Inigo Martinez is the main target to be considered as it is a cost-effective option.
Atletico Madrid are also keeping an eye on the Spaniard, which means a deal won't be easy for any fantasies. An attacking midfielder is also on Barcelona's shortlist as they look to add more creativity to their attack.
They are among the clubs vying for Eintracht Frankfurt's Daichi Kamada, who will be on a free transfer at the end of the season.
Furthermore, a replacement for Robert Lewandowski would also be welcome with Barcelona in the long list of clubs that are negotiating with the entourage of Brazilian talent Roque Vitor from Athletico Paranaense.
If the Catalan giants balk at his outrageous price tag, the possibility of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang returning from Chelsea cannot be ruled out as he prepares to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
Finally, another left winger is also said to be favorable and Yannick Carrasco is the name that continues to be contacted by Barcelona after nearly joining the club recently. It is known that Xavi also wants to bring Messi back to Spain from PSG if he decides to leave France at the end of the season when his contract expires.
PSG have the option of activating their deal in 12 months, but the World Cup winner is still undecided on his future after receiving approaches from Inter Miami and Saudi Arabia.
To exercise, Barcelona must first create space in their squad with Eric Garcia, Sergio Busquets and Franck Kessie among those who can create space.
Xavi is keen to continue building around Lewandowski, Pedri, Gavi, Raphinha, Frenkie de Jong and Ronald Araujo as he seeks to re-establish Barcelona as a dominant force on the continental arena.
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