The free agents that Barca must prioritise signing in 2022

Robin Bairner

• 13 Oct 2021 03:22 CDT
• 5 min read

Barcelona’s perilous financial position means that the days of large transfer fees are gone for now, with the club acting in the free agent market.

This was exemplified this summer, when they added Memphis Depay, Sergio Aguero and Eric Garcia to their squad for no cost.

Although they did spend a fee to buy out their remaining rights on Emerson Royal from Real Betis, they did this in order to facilitate a quick sell to Tottenham.

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With the club having recently announced debts of over €1.3 billion, this is not a situation that is about to change.

Who could Barcelona seek to sign next summer who fits their financial situation and who fits tactically into their team?

Goalkeepers and defenders Barca can target

Goalkeeper has been a problem position for Barcelona of late. Marc-Andre ter Stegen has not been at his best, while back-up Neto is a player who could be moved on.

Andre Onana of Ajax is the most coveted free agent next summer. Inter are thought to be leading the push to sign the Cameroon international star, but Barcelona could realistically rival the Serie A champions.

Mundo Deportivo has also suggested that young Porto goalkeeper Diogo Costa should be considered as a potential arrival given that he is a player with impressive potential.

In the heart of defence, meanwhile, Antonio Rudiger would be the obvious target, although Barca may struggle to compete with the likes of Bayern Munich for the Chelsea man.

Barcelona midfield targets

Another key area where Barcelona will target is the centre of midfield. In this area, there are high profile players such as Paul Pogba and Franck Kessie who will be out of contract next summer.

Pogba looks odds on to remain with Manchester United right now, while Kessie’s situation is far less obvious. Nevertheless, there is expected to be a major battle over the Milan star.

Marseille’s Boubacar Kamara, who can also play in defence, or Bayern’s Corentin Tolisso are other potential options. The versatility of this pair is a major asset for a club now operating on a relative shoestring budget.

Offensively, meanwhile, Barcelona look well placed, with both Ansu Fati and Ousmane Dembele poised to sign new contracts. That means the Camp Nou side are not in any need of attacking reinforcements at this point.