Barcelona's summer transfer window has been a rollercoaster, with the club facing setbacks and challenges. The loss of Robert Lewandowski and the failed pursuit of Julian Alvarez have left the club with a striker-less attack and a defensive void. However, there are still plenty of opportunities for Barcelona to strengthen their squad. Here are five potential signings who could be perfect for the club, despite the setbacks.
Joao Pedro
With Lewandowski gone and Alvarez unlikely to come in, Barcelona needs a new striker. While Anthony Gordon could theoretically play through the middle, it wouldn't align with the club's standards. Joao Pedro, who had a bright first year with Chelsea, scoring three goals at the Club World Cup and 20 goals in his proper first season, could be a suitable option. With technical ability and clinical instinct, he fits well with Barcelona's ethos. However, Chelsea might not be tempted to cash in so soon, especially after their striker signing of last summer, Liam Delap, fell short. But new Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso could cast another glance at Nicolas Jackson, and the Blues might even enter the market for another forward. Pedro, at 24, has plenty of room for growth and could be a better stylistic fit for Barcelona.
Evan Ndicka
Barcelona is lacking a left-footed center-back after letting go of Inigo Martinez last summer. While it's not their top priority, they could restore balance by bringing in a successor for Martinez. Evan Ndicka, a former Eintracht Frankfurt defender, is a calm and well-rounded player. He has a lapse of judgment now and then, but he became so dependable for Roma that he didn't miss a minute of the 2024-25 Serie A season. Since Roma signed him on a free transfer, they would make a big profit by selling him. It could make it worthwhile for Barcelona to consider him.
Alex Grimaldo
Barcelona has never been able to benefit from Alex Grimaldo, who headed off to Benfica a decade ago and has since enjoyed a productive three years with Bayer Leverkusen. The left-back has expressed a desire to give La Liga a crack one day, and what better way than with the club that made him? Barcelona is considering their options at full-back, with Joao Cancelo and Alejandro Balde in the mix. If a vacancy opens up, Grimaldo, with one year remaining on his Leverkusen contract and 14 goals in a season, could be a quality and experienced addition.
Andrei Ratiu
Barcelona might benefit from a more attack-minded right-back than Jules Kounde. Andrei Ratiu, a Romanian player from Rayo Vallecano, has spent the past three years with the club and has become one of the best right-backs in the league outside of the big clubs. Available for a €25m release clause, Ratiu has caught Barcelona's attention. After reaching the Conference League final with Rayo this season, he might have gone as far as he can with his current club, making him an interesting option.
Antonio Nusa
Barcelona could have room for another winger to add to their mix, especially if they can offload Roony Bardghji on loan. Antonio Nusa, a versatile young winger who can play on either wing or in behind a striker, fits the bill. The 21-year-old has been playing for RB Leipzig for the past couple of seasons and is in Norway's squad for the World Cup. With Neymar as a role model, Nusa could be a hit at Camp Nou. However, it depends on another exit, as Barcelona might need to offload another player to make room for him.
In conclusion, despite the setbacks, Barcelona still has plenty of opportunities to strengthen their squad. These five potential signings could be perfect fits for the club, providing a new striker, defensive balance, and attacking options. With careful consideration and strategic planning, Barcelona can build a strong and competitive team for the upcoming season.
