How Barcelona could look next season with four signings – Neymar, Griezmann and two others
BARCELONA talisman Lionel Messi is set to be joined by a host of new arrivals at the Nou Camp this summer, but how will the signings fit into the starting XI alongside the Argentina legend?
Barcelona are chasing some huge signings in the summer transfer window, meaning Ernesto Valverde’s first team could look very different at the start of the 2019/20 season.
The La Liga champions have already snapped up Frenkie de Jong from Ajax in an attempt to bolster their ageing midfield.
Barca were knocked out of the Champions League by Liverpool in humiliating circumstances, letting a 3-0 lead slip to exit at the semi-final stage, and also tasted defeat against Valencia in the Copa del Rey final – highlighting the need for greater strength in depth.
Matthijs de Ligt has been strongly linked with a move to Spain after catching the eye with Ajax this season, although reports suggest Barcelona are yet to make an official bid for the centre-back.
Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United are also in for the Dutchman, who is represented by super-agent Mino Raiola.
Barcelona and Raiola are not on good terms after fractious negotiations regarding Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s move back in 2009, and a deal for De Ligt reportedly stalled over the agent’s cut.
Barcelona transfer news: Lionel Messi is likely to be joined by several new faces at the Nou Camp (Image: GETTY•buildlineup.com)
Barcelona transfer news: Matthijs de Ligt is expected to leave Ajax this summer (Image: GETTY)
Neymar: Barcelona have made PSG an offer says Castles
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The Brazilian has helped the French giants secure consecutive Ligue 1 titles but wants to leave the Parc de Princes and is seeking a return to Spain.
Messi and co are said to want Neymar back and the South America squad members are pushing for Barcelona to re-sign the 27-year-old.
However, Antoine Griezmann could also still arrive at the Nou Camp after confirming he will leave Atletico Madrid this summer – but such high-profile signings would mean Philippe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele are on borrowed time with the Spanish champions.
Barcelona transfer news: Is this how Ernesto Valverde's side will line up next season? (Image: buildlineup.com)
Barcelona predicted line-up in 2019/20
(4-3-3): Ter Stegen; Roberto, Pique, De Ligt, Alba; Busquets, De Jong; Messi, Griezmann, Neymar; Suarez