Barcelona are facing a pivotal transfer window this summer as they look to strengthen multiple areas of the squad to build a team that can knock Real Madrid off their perch next season....CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
One of the main targets for the Blaugrana has been Leeds United’s Brazilian winger Raphinha, who is being eyed as a replacement for contract rebel Ousmane Dembele.
The 25-year-old has been identified as a priority signing by Xavi Hernandez and co after he enjoyed a stunning season with Leeds, during which he scored 11 goals and set up three more to help the Whites survive relegation from the Premier League.
However, Barcelona are set to face a few hurdles in their attempt to land Raphinha. For starters, Leeds United are demanding a transfer fee of €55 million for their prized asset, which is an issue for the Blaugrana given their current financial predicament.
In addition to that, Liverpool have entered the race to sign Raphinha and might have an edge in pursuit of the Brazilian.
It has forced Barcelona to assess other possible options as alternatives for the Brazilian international. And journalist Santi Ovalle is claiming that the Catalan giants are looking at B team winger Ez Abde as a potential alternative if they fail to sign Raphinha this summer.
The 20-year-old Moroccan-Spanish winger arrived at Barca only last summer, signing from Hercules CF and enjoyed a promising debut campaign. While he impressed for the B team along with the exit-bound Ferran Jutgla, Abde also made an impression at the senior level.
The youngster got an extended run in the side immediately after Xavi’s appointment due to a spate of injuries and he took his chances. In 11 first-team appearances, Abde scored one goal, while he posted a return of three goals and seven assists from 21 matches for the B team.
Abde has shown a lot of potential and promise in his burgeoning career at Barcelona. And while there had been plans to either send him on loan or sell him to boost the finances, the 20-year-old is now seen as a serious option for the senior team if Raphinha does not arrive.
