5 things Ousmane Dembele would bring to Barcelona

#2 Will free up Messi who can take up a central role

Messi is expected to take a more central role in the coming years

In his inaugural press conference as Barcelona manager, Ernesto Valverde hinted that Messi could move more centrally, where he can have an even greater influence on the play. That would leave a huge void to fill on the right side of the pitch, where Messi has wreaked havoc for the last decade or so.

Dembele's arrival would be the perfect answer. With Neymar and Dembele playing either side of him, Messi will have the perfect outlet for his sublime vision and ingenious passing.

As the years advance, Messi could drop deeper on the pitch as well – so a player who could eventually take his place in the front three would be an astute and prudent signing.