FC Barcelona Prepare Shock $66 Million Defender Sale To Facilitate Lionel Messi Return
FC Barcelona could sell one of their star defenders in order to facilitate the return of Lionel Messi to the club, as the team faces financial difficulties and needs to reduce their wage bill by €200 million. According to reports, Barca has presented a viability plan to La Liga, mapping out how they can make the transfer work when Messi becomes a free agent on June 30. As part of the plan, Barca has promised to make two big player sales to capture Messi and three other new players. While fans and pundits speculate that misfit wingers Raphinha, Ferran Torres, and Ansu Fati could be sold, Fati, who was reared in the La Masia academy, is arguably the most saleable asset. However, nothing should be ruled out for any of the forwards.
President Joan Laporta attempted to offload Frenkie de Jong last summer and even accepted an €85 million bid for him from Manchester United, but the Dutchman refused to move. It is unlikely that the midfielder will be sold this time, especially with his recent absence through injury costing the team in important matches. Along the back line, Jules Kounde could be moved on despite playing well at right back, and Andreas Christensen, who joined on a free from Chelsea, could also be sold for up to €60 million.
However, breaking up a record-breaking defense that has leaked just 9 goals in 29 La Liga matches this season would be considered a last resort by Laporta and manager Xavi Hernandez. According to SPORT, Barca might not even make a reinforcement in the position this summer given Kounde's success. While selling one of their star defenders may be necessary to reduce the wage bill and bring Messi back to the club, it is a decision that would not be taken lightly by Barca's management team.
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