Barcelona’s summer transfer activity has begun in earnest with the signings of Sergio Aguero, Emerson and Eric Garcia in the same week.
However, there is still a significant amount of work to do to restructure an unbalanced squad.
Here, we look at the areas that the club need to address in order to compete again both domestically and in Europe next season.
Central defence
This area has been a constant headache for Ronald Koeman since he took charge at the start of last season.
Garcia’s signing means that Barcelona now have six central defenders for two positions, which must be reduced over the summer.
Clearly, this is an area that president Joan Laporta needs to address.
Full-backs
On the left-hand side, Jordi Alba’s place is under no threat from Junior Firpo and healthy competition would be beneficial on that side.
On the right, the combination of Sergino Dest, Sergi Roberto and Emerson is likely to see Roberto moved on this summer.
Defensive midfield
Last season saw Sergio Busquets’ place in the side unchallenged by Miralem Pjanic.
Whilst Pjanic looks set to return to Juventus this summer, Barcelona need to replace him in order to avoid Frenkie De Jong having to fill in there next season should Busquets pick up an injury, giving his outstanding attacking capabilities.
Centre forward
Before Aguero’s arrival, Barcelona’s only number nine was Martin Braithwaite.
Braithwaite is not at the level required for a side who want to compete for the Champions League, so the club will look to have him replaced this summer.
Three stars
Barcelona have three players playing in a similar position and carrying out a similar role: Antoine Griezmann, Philippe Coutinho and Lionel Messi.
If one was to remain at the Camp Nou this summer, there is no doubt that it must be Messi.
