Barcelona are facing some major roadblocks in their pursuit of Raphinha. The Brazilian starlet has been identified as the ideal replacement for the departing Ousmane Dembele....CONTINUE READING
But with negotiations with Leeds United proving to be difficult, Barcelona have identified a couple of alternatives in the market including Angel Di Maria.
The Argentine international has become a sought-after figure in the transfer market after playing out his contract at Paris Saint-Germain. He is available for a free transfer, thus alerting the likes of Juventus and Barcelona.
The Catalans are seemingly entertaining the possibility of signing Di Maria as a potential replacement for Dembele. The club would have to pay no premium for his services, making him a financially feasible target especially in the midst of an economic crisis.
However, a recent report from Gazzetta dello Sport has offered an update on Di Maria’s transfer saga, suggesting the Argentine international is demanding a salary of around €9 million per season.
Considering the experience and talent he brings to the table, it is a reasonable figure for a player of his calibre. However, it could potentially create financial roadblocks for Barcelona who have recently restricted the club’s wage bill.
FCB have set a €9 million per season salary threshold for all their star players. Even top target Robert Lewandowski may have to adhere to the strict wage structure with the Polish international set to earn a salary of around €9 million at Camp Nou.
Signing Di Maria could mean Barcelona will have to incorporate another player on the maximum salary threshold, eventually increasing the overall cost of the workforce.
However, it is worth mentioning the lack of transfer fee involved in the transaction could cancel out Di Maria’s hefty wages. A potential two-year incorporation from the Argentine could cost the club a figure of around €20 million.
Di Maria in turn, would offer the much needed experience in the Barcelona attack and could serve as a short-term solution for the right-wing position. It may ultimately open up the opportunity for Barca to sign Raphinha on a cut-price deal in 2023.
