FC Barcelona Decide Winter Market Signings Including New Number 10

FC Barcelona have decided on their transfer policy for the upcoming winter market according to SPORT.

The Catalans had a remarkably quiet summer in terms of actual spending. While in 2022 they shelled out close to €160 million ($172 million) on the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Jules Kounde and Raphinha thanks to the pulling of a series of ‘economic levers’, the preseason saw only a paltry €3.4 million ($3.65 million) outlay on former academy product Oriol Romeu from Girona.

There was plenty of activity elsewhere, however, as Barca landed ex-Manchester City captain Ilkay Gundogan and Athletic Club defender Inigo Martinez for free. Furthermore, Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo arrived on loan approaching midnight on deadline day.

In the meantime, Barca also pulled off what could be later viewed as a major coup in agreeing to pay Athletico Paranaense €30 million ($32.2 million) plus €31 million ($33.3 million) in variables for Brazilian teen sensation Vitor Roque.

Though the summer market only closed a fortnight ago, the defending La Liga champions are already planning for its winter equivalent which opens in January.

With their economic woes and troubles navigating Financial Fair Play limits in mind, Barca won’t sign anyone at the turn of the year according to SPORT.

As long as their aren’t any injuries that can alter the course of the season, head coach Xavi Hernandez and his staff are already clear that Vitor Roque will be the only arrival to boost the first team squad midway through the season.

Barca looked at trying to speed up Vitor Roque’s arrival when it became apparent that there might be a shortage of men on the wings.

Approaching deadline day at the start of the month, Ansu Fati left for Brighton on loan while Ez Abde permanently joined Real Betis.

Vitor Roque is able to to play on either wing, providing competition to his compatriot Raphinha, Joao Felix, and fellow teen prodigy Lamine Yamal. But he will also bring back up to the aging Robert Lewandowski as the Blaugrana’s out-and-out number 9.

When Lewandowski eventually departs Catalonia, Vitor Roque could even take the iconic jersey for his new club. According to El Nacional, however, Barca have already agreed with Nike for the youngster to inherit Messi’s old 10 jersey.