Barça will turn to Nolito or Yarmolenko in the case of an emergency

Everyone is aware that Pedro's move to Chelsea has weakened Barcelona's squad, especially in attack. The dressing room and the coaching staff know that. The club's decision, though, is to not make any more signings this season. It is a clear vote of confidence in Sandro and Munir, two players who Luis Enrique has promoted to the first team. 

The confidence in the two academy products is absolute and they will offer an alternative to the trident when injuries, suspensions and rotations begin. Luis Enrique believes both Sandro and Munir can make huge strides forward this season and become two important players within the team. 

That is the ideal scenario, but the new sporting director, Robert Fernandez, is prepared to make a move in the transfer market if it becomes necessary. The decision not to sign anyone will change if there is a long-term injury or Munir and Sandro struggle to prove themselves over the next four months. On Fernandez's list are two possible forwards who could take Pedro's place in the squad. 

Nolito is the player liked the most. He progressed through the ranks at Barça and is currently playing for Celta Vigo. At 28, he has matured as a forward and is highly rated across La Liga. He would provide performances immediately, knows the club already and is wanted by Luis Enrique. In addition, he has already said he would like to return to Barça. The problem is his release clause, which stands at 18 million euros. The Catalan club consider it slightly high.

THE 'NEW SHEVCHENKO'

The other candidate is the Ukraine forward Andriy Yarmolenko, who currently plays for Dinamo Kiev and has been named the 'new Shevchenko' because of his speed and his eye for goal. At 25, Yarmolenko has already spent eight seasons in Dinamo's first team and has extensive experience in European competitions. 

Barça feel they would be able to sign both players if they needed to strengthen their squad urgently, but the idea is to compete with the current squad, with the additions of Aleix Vidal and Arda Turan in January, when the FIFA ban which prevents them registering players expires. Both Vidal and Arda can occupy positions in attack, so the squad should have enough cover in the second half of the season. It will be another matter, though, if any of the trident suffer a serious injury. That is when Nolito and Yarmolenko could come into the picture.