BARCELONA are planning a massive squad overhaul this summer so they can make the most of Lionel Messi’s final few years in action, according to reports.
Spanish publication Sport claim the Nou Camp side want two defenders and two forwards.
Barca are planning a massive squad overhaul with the aim to build a team around Messi
Their aim is to build a team around the six-time Ballon d’Or winner.
And their desire to press forward with plans as a matter of urgency comes in light of the 2-0 loss to Real Madrid last weekend.
Barca chiefs believe 32-year-old Messi was too isolated during the Bernabeu clash, with the team mood after the game described as being “f***ed up, resigned and dejected”, according to AS.
A new centre back and right back are wanted in defence.
Manager Quique Setien currently has just three options to play in the middle of the back line: Gerard Pique, Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti.
The right back slot is still waiting to be filled since Dani Alves left in 2016.
Lautaro Martinez is one of the names being linked with the No 9 position.
Barcelona have reportedly looked at offering Arturo Vidal, Nelson Semedo and cash for the Inter Milan forward.
He is wanted to rotate with Luis Suarez – who underwent knee surgery last month and, at 33, looks to be moving into the twilight of his career.
Arsenal’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is another who has been named as a possible Barca forward.
A wideman with attacking instincts is also on the shopping list and, if the market allows, so is a midfielder, but this is less of a priority.
Barca are said to be looking only for players of a starting quality rather than those who make up the numbers in the squad.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
