Several key players might have to leave Barcelona if La Liga forces the club to drastically reduce their wage bill. Barcelona’s financial struggles are nothing new and losing players may affect their club as a whole in the next season.
Mundo Deportivo reports that La Liga are forcing the Catalans to slash their infamous wage bill by €200M ($215M). In spite of the possibility of raising income, the most likely solution would be to sell players.
Obviously, Frenkie de Jong dominates this conversation. A Manchester United bid for the Dutch midfielder ran all summer. But the player refused to leave Camp Nou. As a result of that transfer fiasco, he is now a regular starter for Xavi, meaning the Blaugrana will insist he is not for sale. Expect Manchester United to return for the 25-year-old if the two sides qualify for next season’s UEFA Champions League. Until the end of his contract in 2026, the player is set to pocket approximately $89M. In spite of his lack of desire to leave Catalonia, De Jong’s position will be interesting to watch.
Players other than De Jong Barcelona might release
It is important to note, however, that De Jong may not be the only talented player who will be displaced as a result of this financial crisis. Seeing his playing time diminish quite a bit, Ansu Fati has also been mentioned.
It was a few seasons ago when the 20-year-old was a gem at Barcelona. But a number of unfortunate injuries have slowed his progress. The winger’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has reportedly been in contact with suitors ahead of a possible sale. Meanwhile, Barcelona values their academy graduate at $102M.
Sergi Roberto, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, the club’s highest earner might also move out. In addition to Franck Kessie, Ousmane Dembele may also be sacrificed due to his contract expiring.
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