Barcelona's technical management began planning early for the next season, after the team finished second in the Spanish League this season under the leadership of Xavi Hernandez.
The Catalan club's management has already known for a long time the demands of the Spanish coach, who told the administration that he needs players of a distinguished level in each position, to form a team capable of competing in all competitions.
Xavi's demands are summed up in 7 deals, some of which have already been settled, while work is underway to complete the remaining contracts.
Two deals closed:
Christensen: The Danish central defender has been on hold for months. He will arrive for free in the coming weeks, having barely played in Chelsea's last matches at the behest of Thomas Tuchel. Until recently, it was an indisputable mainstay. Physically strong, and good at hitting the ball. It remains to be seen if he is able to continue and organize at the highest level with Barcelona.
Casey: Indispensable to Pioli at Milan. The Ivorian is a defensive midfielder who has good ball control, is very fit and has the ability to cover long areas of the field. Xavi wants him as a complement to Pablo Jaffe and Pedri, and it remains to be seen how he adapts to Barcelona's complex system.
Two Spanish players on the radar:
Azpilicueta: The Chelsea captain really wants to return to Spain. He is distinguished by his ability to occupy more than one position in defense, and his leadership abilities are very high. He can play as a right back, a left back, and a central defender. In principle, he has a verbal agreement with the "blue" club to facilitate his departure.
Marcos Alonso: One of the best left-backs in the world at the attacking level. He suffers more in defence, especially in defenses of 4. His contract with Chelsea expires in 2023, but he wants to return to Spain for personal reasons.
Two complicated deals:
Rafinha: Everything is suspended until the end of the English Premier League. The Brazilian winger will reduce the release clause in his contract to 25 million euros, if Leeds United are relegated. Currently, Barcelona cannot afford this amount. Unwanted players must be sold, and sponsorship agreements closed, to provide the cash needed to sign him. The Brazilian is a skilled winger and goalscorer, and he can bridge the gap left by Dembele's expected departure.
Lewandowski: The offensive pillar of the Xavi project. One of the best strikers in the world, guaranteeing at least 30 goals per season. Obviously, that will depend on his adaptation. Flawless professional. A tough "battle" with Bayern Munich is expected.
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