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Barcelona have reportedly included Bundesliga stars Nico Schlotterbeck and Dayot Upamecano in their transfer list this summer. The Catalans are looking to reinforce their defensive forces after multiple issues in the first half of the season.
Nico Schlotterbeck currently plays for Borussia Dortmund, with his contract set to expire in June 2027. The 25-year-old German centre back, who's reportedly resisted renewal offers from Dortmund, could be a great addition to Barcelona's young squad. Meanwhile, Dalot Upamecano's contract with Bayern Munich is set to end this season.
According to Mundo Deportivo (h/t Barca Universal), Barcelona are keen on reinforcing their defence next summer, with Nico Schlotterbeck and Dalot Upamecano on their list of targets. The club's scouts have reportedly been in Germany to look for potential centre-backs in recent weeks. Upamecano could be a free agent at the end of this season, while Schlotterbeck could be available for a reported €40 million.
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After having a fairly successful last season, Barcelona's performance have dipped this season due to major defensive woes. The key change is the absence of Inigo Martinez, who left the club to sign for Al-Nassr last summer. Martinez made a solid central pairing with Pau Cubarsi, which worked well for Hansi Flick's high-line system.
However, Ronald Araujo and Pau Cubarsi have not found the same chemistry in their backline, while Eric Garcia remains a hit-and-miss option. Andreas Christensen is also inconsistent due to frequent injuries. Therefore, the Catalans are in urgent need of new defenders to return to their fullest potential.
Barcelona shortlist five key targets for the striker position amid Robert Lewandowski's departure rumors
According to Mundo Deportivo (h/t Barca Universal), Barcelona are keen on signing a new striker next summer and have shortlisted five targets for the same. The reports come amid rumors of Robert Lewandowski's departure, whose contract is set to expire at the end of this season.
Barcelona's five primary striker targets notably include Atletico Madrid ace Julian Alvarez and Bayern Munich superstar Harry Kane. Both options will be expensive and complicated, given the Catalans' alleged financial standing. The other options are Serhou Guirassy, Victor Osimhen, and Etta Eyong.
While Erling Haaland continues to remain a dream target, his signing is considered impossible for La Blaugrana due to the financial implications. However, certain conditions must be met before the club can consider signing a striker. Lewandowski's departure is key to the operation, as he could free up a reported €40 million in fair play.
Moreover, the club will also have to return to the 1:1 rule, which has yet to be achieved. Reports suggest Barca are close to meeting the 1:1 requirement and awaiting payment related to VIP seats in December. It remains to be seen if La Blaugrana manages to fulfil their transfer requirements, subject to departures and other financial conditions.
