Barcelona Transfer News Roundup: Catalans eyeing Sevilla star, club plan Vitor Roque exit, and more - June 16, 2024
Barcelona failed to defend their La Liga title in the 2023/24 campaign, finishing second behind bitter rivals Real Madrid. The Catalans ended the campaign without silverware, parted ways with Xavi, and have appointed Hansi Flick as his successor.
Meanwhile, the Spanish giants have set their sights on a Sevilla defender. Elsewhere, the Blaugrana are ready to offload Vitor Roque this year.
On that note, let's look at the major Barcelona transfer stories from June 16, 2024.
Barcelona eyeing Loic Bade
Barcelona have identified Loic Bade as a possible replacement for Ronald Araujo, according to Mundo Deportivo. The Uruguayan defender's future remains up in the air this summer amid interest from Bayern Munich.
The Bavarians launched an offensive for Araujo in January but failed to get a deal over the line. The German giants are likely to return for the 25-year-old as they look to bolster their squad after an underwhelming campaign.
Araujo remains a key figure at Camp Nou and the Catalans would prefer him to stay. However, given the La Liga giants's poor finances, they are likely to consider his exit if they receive a lucrative offer.
Barcelona have identified Bade as a failsafe option if the Uruguayan does end up leaving Camp Nou. The French defender enjoyed a fruitful 2023/24 campaign with Sevilla, helping them win the Europa League.
The 24-year-old reportedly has a market value of just €14m and could be a cost-effective option for the Catalans. However, they will only move for Bade only if Araujo leaves.
Catalans plan Vitor Roque exit
Barcelona are willing to listen to offers for Vitor Roque this summer, according to The Athletic. The Brazilian forward arrived at the Camp Nou in January and was initially tipped to become Robert Lewandowski's successor.
The 19-year-old struggled for chances under Xavi, but things are expected to change with Hansi Flick in charge. However, the Catalans are unable to register nine of their 25 first team stars for the upcoming season due to financial issues, including Vitor Roque.
The Spanish giants have apparently exceeded the La Liga's salary limit this season. Barcelona need to raise €130m before the end of this month or they will struggle to add new players to their roster.
As such, the Blaugrana are apparently considering cashing in on Vitor Roque if they cannot register him in time. Despite his struggles at Camp Nou, the Brazilian is not short of options, as he is one of the brightest young talents in football right now. The player's agent has already hinted that his client could be on the move this year.
West Ham United eyeing Clement Lenglet
West Ham United have set their sights on Clement Lenglet, according to SPORT. The French defender spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Aston Villa, registering 25 appearances across competitions.
The 28-year-old is no longer part of plans at Camp Nou and Barcelona are ready to let him leave. However, a permanent move is unlikely to materialize this summer, despite previous interest from Tottenham Hotspur.
The Hammer have identified Lenglet as an option to shore up their backline ahead of the new campaign. However, they will face competition from Borussia Dortmund, who also have their eyes on the Frenchman. Lenglet is under contract with the Catalans until 2026.