The transfer window is not even open yet, but it already feels like a roller-coaster for us Barça fans. We went from feeling that Leo Messi will return, to facing reality of him going to Miami. Then, the club was able to seal the deal for both Vitor Roque and Gundogan. But we all know that the ‘Pivot’ position is the first priority, following the departure of Sergio Busquets. At first, the media spoke about Zubimendi. Then Kimmich. Then Brozovic. And now? We’re speaking about Dani Parejo and Oriol Busquets. Naturally, these are underwhelming names. But it’s not as bad as it seems. If it’s all part of the plan.
No Top-Pivot available?
We all knew that getting Marcelo Brozovic would be a very tough task. One might say that the club entered the negotiations late, so it was always going to be a challenge to sign him. And with a huge offer from Saudi Arabia, it looks like he’s about to be a failed operation.
Kimmich and Zubimendi are the other ‘Top’ options that Xavi would like. But both of them seems to be impossible to get this summer. Kimmich has 2 years left on him contract, and Bayern would demand huge amounts of money. ‘Zubi’ would also be pricey, and it looks like he wants to stay at Real Sociedad.
According to reports in the last week, Xavi didn’t want to ‘settle’ for other options like Florentino or Amrabat. Therefore, the ‘Pivot’ position would need some thinking out of the box.
Parejo or Romeu as short temr solutions
Personally, I’m not a big fan of Romeu or Parejo, especially not at their current form. They are good players, but can they be starters? But, maybe there’s something else there.
Maybe, Xavi wants to start with Gundogan and Frenkie as double pivots. In that case, both Parejo and Romeu can become good squad depth players. Moreover, as short-term solutions, they won’t “block” the way from a possible young long term signing. For example: Fabricio Diaz.
Moreover, signing one of them would allow the club to send and offer to Zubimendi or Kimmich next summer.
In that case, getting one of both Dani Parejo or Oriol Romeu would make some sense. Personally, I would prefer Romeu. The former La Masia player is younger, and is more suitable for a ‘Pivot’ role. He can play next to a more ‘attacking’ Pivot like Frenkie or Gundo, and won’t mind staying at the back.
Time is running out
We are only few days away from the end of the ‘Fiscal season’. By the end of the month, the club would have to send the reports of last season’s revenue. Afterwards, La Liga will set next season’s salary cap. Therefore, until then, we shouldn’t expect to see the club sending big money anywhere.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan are in the same need to sell players fast. Therefore, they are in a hurry to send Brozovic to Saudi Arabia, and they’re pushing to get the deal done.
Only a firm decision from Brozovic can reverse the situation. But right now it doesn’t look good.
Parejo and Romeu will be more ‘cheap’ alternatives. But the club knows that they are not the long term solutions.
The next week will be vital. Barcelona will push to make some sales, and we might see new sponsors announced. Anything for a good report that will allow the club to get to 1:1 in the FFP.
Stay tuned as the next days will be filled with updates.
