What’s the story?
Lionel Messi has been Barcelona’s leading light once again this season. However, despite his good perfromances, the Catalan giants have not had a season to remember. Out of the Champions League and second favourites for the La Liga title, Barcelona stars led by Messi are desperate to strengthen the squad in the summer.
According to reports in Don Balon, the Barcelona superstar has drawn up a three-man shortlist for the Catalan giants in the summer transfer window. The names Messi wants at Camp Nou are reported to be Arsenal star Hector Bellerin, PSG midfielder Marco Verratti and Juventus star Paulo Dybala.
In case you didn’t know...
All the three players: Bellerin, Verratti and Paulo Dybala have long been linked with a move to the Catalan giants. Ever since Dani Alves’ departure, Barcelona have struggled in the right-back position. Also, the midfield has failed to inspire their usual confidence and one can see why Messi feels the need to strengthen in these areas.
Another interesting aspect is the form of Paco Alcacer. While Barcelona have been overreliant on MSN, Alcacer has shown glimpses of his quality in the last few matches. However, the addition of Dybala will definitely add another dimension to the Barcelona attack.
Also read: OFFICIAL: Barcelona director confirms interest in signing Arsenal superstar Hector Bellerin
The heart of the matter
All the 3 players reportedly wanted by Messi are world class superstars who will definitely improve any team in the world. Also, moves for Bellerin and Verratti seem to be gathering steam although the arrival of Dybala looks a bit doubtful especially after technical director Robert Fernandez's quotes.
The Barcelona board will be keen to keep Messi happy as he is undoubtedly the best player in this Barcelona squad. With the Argentine maestro yet to sign a new contract, the Barcelona top brass will look to fulfil all of Messi’s demands.
What’s next?
it promises to be a summer of great change at Barcelona. With Luis Enrique set to step down after the end of the season, a lot of the arrivals and departures will depend on the new manager’s wishes and the philosophy he wants to incorporate at the Camp Nou.
Barcelona’s technical director Robert Fernandez is also doing everything he can to tie up the deals as soon as possible and build a squad capable of dominating European football next season.
Also read: Reports: Barcelona beat Real Madrid to sign World Class midfielder Marco Verratti
Author’s take
Spanish daily Don Balon has come up with a lot of reports about Lionel Messi’s transfer demands before signing a new contract. However, this report seems to hold some level of authenticity as Barcelona have already moved quickly to sign 2 (Bellerin and Verratti) of the 3 players on Messi’s list.
It will indeed be interesting to see how Barcelona’s squad lines up next season.
