It’s given that if Barcelona want to make new signings in the summer, they must lower their wage bill.
But what’s new in this situation is the fact that La Liga president Javier Tebas has reminded the Blaugrana that they would take legal action ‘against the very precautionary measures taken by the judge of the commercial court number 12 of Barcelona’, reports Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo.
As the league administrative prepares its appeal, they have informed Barcelona that the wage bill must be reduced by more than €200 million by the summer.
And the only way Barcelona can comply with the appeal is by selling players. This way, the team can show a revenue stream and this can also serve to lower expenses, especially for those who are on a bigger payroll.
Interestingly enough, Barcelona are in a good state than they were this time last year. For the purpose of selling players, Memphis Depay has already exited and as far as the summer transfer window is concerned, several big names are already lined up.
In that regard, Sergi Roberto’s name is at the top of the list. It must be remembered that the full-back’s contract is due to expire at the end of the season and it remains to be seen whether or not he accepts Barcelona’s new offer.
If he ends up staying, one can safely assume that the player has taken a substantial cut in his wages.
Meanwhile, the likes of Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba are among those who are rightly tipped to leave by the summer. The two captains, who are past their prime, will be reviewed and the most likely outcome is going to be an exit.
On the other hand, a certain Franck Kessie represents a perfect market opportunity. The midfielder, who is certainly out of favour, joined Barcelona last summer on a free transfer from Milan. Given that his contract runs until 2026, Barcelona can demand a good amount of transfer fee if a suitor comes calling.