The stars Barcelona WILL NOT sign when the summer transfer window opens
Barcleona's sporting directors have started to take decisions for the season ahead. The club have made their priority signing a centre-back, a striker and, if the chance arises, a left-back. Three positions in which they have had to rule out signing some big names, thanks to price, priority and even because they don't think they will adjust to the characteristics of Barcelona's game.
Objective: Centre-back
John Stones (Everton), Jose Maria Gimenez (Atletico) and Romagnoli (Milan) have been ruled out, for various reasons. With Stones there is serious doubt he could adapt to Spanish football. He's liked by Barcelona but the price would be high too, because Premier League sides want him. The other two are ruled out for football reasons - their philosophy of play doesn't fit Barcelona's. They are playing well for their teams, but Barcelona's technical staff want them to have the ability to bring the ball out of defence. For this reason, Barcelona will be focusing on Marquinhos (PSG) and Laporte (Athletic).
No central midfielder
Last season Lucho wanted to reinforce this position. In the end he went for Arda Turan. The club consider this position covered, especially when Rafinha is back from injury, and with the potential to get Denis Suarez back. This is why they are not pursuing their interest with Gundogan (Dortmund). Lucho chose Arda over him last season. He is likely to end up at Man City with Pep Guardiola. The case of Pogba is different. Barcelona know he would be a huge signing but he's not a priority this summer and they will not enter the running for him.
Attacking option
They are looking for a player who could complement the current attack. Leicester City's Riyad Mahrez is well liked, after he stunned the Premier League this season. At Barcelona they don't doubt he would be a good fit with his quality, but they don't think Leicester will let him go for a reasonable fee. They are preparing a new deal for him as they prepare to play in the Champions League for the first time in their history.
