FC Barcelona is facing the necessity of a significant player sale this summer, as per reports from RAC1 citing undisclosed sources. The club's financial constraints have led to the decision to place an unexpected player on the transfer market ahead of the 2024/2025 season.
It has been widely speculated that Barcelona will need to offload two key players to alleviate their financial burdens. Recent reports from SPORT indicate that the priority for sale will be Jules Kounde and Raphinha, who were acquired for a combined sum exceeding $110 million in 2022 during Joan Laporta's tenure as president.
There is also interest from top clubs like Bayern Munich and Manchester United in Ronald Araujo and Frenkie de Jong, respectively. However, Laporta is reportedly reluctant to part ways with these players unless absolutely necessary.
One of the reasons behind considering Kounde for sale is his potential to command a high transfer fee, particularly from Premier League clubs. The young defender was close to joining Chelsea from Sevilla before Barcelona intervened at the last moment.
Another factor influencing the decision is the emergence of 17-year-old Pau Cubarsi, leading to an overcrowding situation in the central defense position at the club. With a total of six center backs, including loanees Eric Garcia and Clement Lenglet, the surplus may also result in Inigo Martinez being put up for sale.
Martinez, who arrived on a free transfer from Athletic Club in 2023, has been hindered by injuries during his time at Barcelona. While his performances have been decent, a potential sale could provide the club with much-needed profit and help navigate Financial Fair Play regulations.
Compared to Martinez, Kounde offers versatility by being able to play as a right back, a role he has successfully filled in previous seasons. With Araujo rested for a recent Champions League match, both Martinez and Kounde are expected to feature in Barcelona's upcoming La Liga fixture against Mallorca.
