Transfer Centre

Ronald Koeman hints at Barcelona departures

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 03 January 2021

Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman hints that a number of players at Camp Nou could be offloaded as the Blaugrana look to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window.

Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman has hinted that some players could be heading for the exit door at Camp Nou in the near future.

La Blaugrana continue to be linked with moves for soon-to-be free agents Eric Garcia, Memphis Depay and Georginio Wijnaldum despite the volatile financial situation at the club.

Several out-of-favour players in Koeman's ranks - such as Samuel Umtiti, Junior Firpo and the Arsenal-linked Riqui Puig - have been tipped to move on after struggling for starts in the 2020-21 campaign.

When asked by reporters about potential outgoings and the upcoming presidential election, Koeman said: "There are players that are in a complicated situation at the club and, in addition, we want to strengthen the squad.

"When we know who's going to be the next president, there won't be much time [left in the transfer window]. We have to be prepared to speak quickly to resolve sporting issues. I can't change the date of the elections, we have to accept it.

"In principle, I would not be disappointed to not be able to make signings due to the club's situation. I speak a lot with (sporting director) Ramon Planes about young players, where we can improve the quality of the squad, although it will have to be the new president that signs of the decisions."

Barcelona sit sixth in the La Liga table before Sunday night's fixture with Huesca.