As Barcelona prepare to return to the 1:1 financial fair play rule this summer, the club is setting its sights on a new striker to fill the void left by Robert Lewandowski.

The technical department, led by Deco, is also targeting reinforcements at left-back and left-footed centre-back, with solutions for these positions expected in the coming weeks.

According to 'EFE', the Catalan giants are optimistic about reaching an agreement with Al-Hilal to extend Joao Cancelo's loan. The Portuguese full-back has impressed during his second spell with the Blaugrana.

Securing Cancelo and Rashford

Cancelo is eager to remain at Spotify Camp Nou, and Marcus Rashford shares the same commitment. However, renewing Rashford's loan is proving more challenging, as Manchester United are pushing for Barcelona to activate the €30 million purchase option.

For that price, the Blaugrana know it will be difficult to find another winger capable of matching Rashford's output—14 goals and 14 assists this season. However, the club believes those funds will be better allocated towards securing a reliable striker. As reported by 'Sport', Barcelona will attempt to negotiate another loan deal with a mandatory purchase clause for 2027.

Meanwhile, the conversion of Gerard Martin from full-back to left-sided centre-back has been a success. Additionally, Alvaro Cortes, the Barca Atletic captain, impressed during his debut against Alaves, positioning himself as a strong candidate for first-team inclusion next season.

If Andreas Christensen, whose contract expires on 30 June, agrees to a reduced renewal—his current €12 million gross salary is considered excessive for a backup defender—the centre-back roster for next season will be complete.

Bastoni ruled out, Joao Pedro gains traction

Barcelona have ruled out a move for Alessandro Bastoni, with Inter Milan valuing the Italian defender at around €60 million. A left-footed centre-back will only be pursued if a market opportunity arises.

In their search for a centre-forward, Barcelona estimate that Lewandowski's departure—after scoring 119 goals in four seasons—will free up approximately €40 million gross in wages and amortisation.

With the wage bill balanced, the club will need to finalise player sales to fund a significant investment in their attack. Potential departures include full-backs Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde, centre-back Ronald Araujo, midfielder Marc Casado, and forward Roony Bardghji.

Among the options to bolster the attack, Julian Alvarez is the preferred choice. However, the Argentine forward, currently at Atletico Madrid, is also being courted by PSG, and Barcelona are unwilling to enter a bidding war.

The name gaining the most momentum is Brazilian forward Joao Pedro. His omission from Carlo Ancelotti's World Cup squad could facilitate favourable negotiations with his English club, as his absence from the tournament limits the potential for his market value to rise.

João Pedro

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