Barcelona and manager Ernesto Valverde have a clear mission in front of them, as they open a new chapter for the 2018-19 campaign. Changes in the team will be arriving, as well as a renewed focus on success in the UEFA Champions League.
Considering the Blaugrana captured a league and cup double this past term, it is a bit odd to describe a need for improvement. Despite their triumphs, watching Real Madrid lift a third consecutive European title will not have gone down well in Catalonia.
Club legend Andrés Iniesta has stepped aside, as he begins a new career away from Spain. Barcelona will still be loaded with talent, but they will be searching for the key reinforcements to make the squad even better.
That exact type of transfer seemed set to arrive in the form of Antoine Griezmann, and many believed that the striker would make a move to the Camp Nou. Instead, he has chosen to stay with Atlético Madrid, and continue to build upon what manager Diego Simeone has in place. Griezmann announced his decision last week in a television special, deciding between the two Spanish clubs.
With the spectacular front-line of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and Philippe Coutinho, Barcelona’s attack has the capability of overwhelming the opposition. But they must also build depth, on top of additions for the midfield and defence.
While Griezmann may no longer be an option, we take a look at five players who Barcelona may look to sign this summer ahead of the new season.
3Paulo Dybala – Juventus
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8s9EP66PtJ8
Barcelona’s preference for a 4-3-3 formation emphasises quality from wide positions, and they would certainly find that in Juventus forward Paulo Dybala. The 24-year-old’s creativity and pace would be an excellent addition to the attack, and Messi knows his abilities quite well from their time together with the Argentina national team.
Able to play in a midfield role also, Dybala brings flexibility that would allow Valverde to utilise different options throughout the upcoming campaign.
