Barcelona have identified three key areas to strengthen in the upcoming summer transfer window, despite potential budget constraints for the next season. Their primary focus is securing a new number nine, followed by a central defender. The third priority, a left winger, will depend on the remaining financial resources.
The left-wing position has been a subject of much discussion over the past six months, with Marcus Rashford currently occupying the role. Barcelona hold a €30 million buy option for Rashford, who has expressed his desire to stay at his current club. However, it appears unlikely that the Catalan side will activate this clause. Simultaneously, Manchester United has shown little inclination to negotiate the price downwards, diminishing the chances of Rashford continuing in the same position next season.
Consequently, Barcelona has been exploring more affordable alternatives, including Andreas Schjelderup, Ez Abde, and Jan Virgili. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana made an inquiry about Abde last week to gauge the possibility of his transfer this summer.
Abde has been heavily linked with a move in recent months following his impressive performances for Real Betis this season. Catalan media reports suggest that Aston Villa and Newcastle United have also made inquiries. Previously, a valuation of €25-35 million has been cited for the Moroccan winger. Abde is currently under contract until 2029, with a release clause set at €60 million.
Barcelona sold Abde to Betis three years ago for €7.5 million, retaining a 50% sell-on clause. Betis later recovered an additional 30% of his sale percentage through the loan of Vitor Roque, but Barcelona still benefits from a 20% sell-on fee, which would effectively act as a discount if they were to re-sign him. Despite this, recent reports indicate that Abde has reservations about returning to Camp Nou, as he prioritizes a starting role, which he believes would be difficult to secure given the competition from Raphinha.
