Barcelona ready to part with 8 first team players in the summer transfer window – Reports
Barcelona is reportedly planning to offload eight first-team players this summer, including Frenkie de Jong and Jules Kounde, in a bid to improve their financial situation. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana are gearing up for a significant clearout at Camp Nou, with eight members of Xavi’s squad potentially up for sale. Among those listed are Spanish goalkeeper Inaki Pena and a defensive quartet comprising Andreas Christensen, Inigo Martinez, Jules Kounde, and Alejandro Balde.
While the inclusion of Kounde and Balde may come as a surprise given their regular appearances in Barcelona’s starting lineup, their potential departures could fetch the club a substantial sum.
Kounde, the French defender, is valued at €50 million, while Balde, the Spanish left-back, holds a market value of €40 million, according to Transfermarkt.
De Jong, who has long been linked with a potential departure, could also be available this summer. The Dutch midfielder is facing a period on the sidelines due to an ankle injury.
Barcelona may entertain offers in the region of €70 million for the Netherlands international. Additionally, Spanish midfielder Oriol Romeu, who has struggled for playing time, is also listed as available for transfer.
Despite Brazilian attacker Raphinha’s recent resurgence in form, he is also considered up for sale, with a market value of €50 million. It’s important to note that while Barcelona is not actively seeking to sell these eight players, they could consider offers if suitable ones arise.
However, it’s improbable that all eight will depart, considering the potential impact on the depth of Xavi’s squad.
Marcos Alonso is reportedly set to leave Barcelona
It’s almost certain that Marcos Alonso will depart Barcelona when his contract expires at the end of the season. The Spanish left-back has had minimal playing time this season, featuring only eight times across various competitions due to a recurring back issue.
Reports suggest that Atletico Madrid is eyeing a move for the 33-year-old once he becomes a free agent. Alonso possesses attributes favored by Atletico’s manager Diego Simeone, including versatility, as he can operate in both central defense and as a left-back.
Alonso arrived at Barcelona as a free agent in September 2022 following his departure from Chelsea. He played a significant role in Xavi’s squad last season, making 37 appearances across various competitions and scoring three goals.
The nine-time capped Spain international could reunite with his former teammate Cesar Azpilicueta at the Wanda Metropolitano. Azpilicueta, the former Chelsea captain, joined Atletico last summer, also as a free agent.