Yarmolenko & Gundogan? Barça want TWO signings in January

The January transfer window is getting closer and, therefore, so is the need for decisions, too. FC Barcelona initially were thinking of not making signings in the winter, but circumstances -- player sales and injuries -- have obliged them to look into the market so they can fight for titles next spring. 

Away from Arda Turan and Aleix Vidal, the club are clear that they want to sign a versatile attacked and are seriously studying the possiblity of signing a central midfielder as well. Within the next month they will have to decide which players they want so they can begin negotiations. 

Barça's planning has been seriously affected by FIFA's transfer ban. They did their homework and sigend Arda and Vidal, even knowing they could not play until January. It's a risk which has worked out well when you consider the departure of Pedro. 

At that moment, Luis Enrique asked for a player to replace Pedro, but the decision was made to wait until January. More than a month has passed since then and the injuries to Rafinha, Messi and Iniesta have made things worse. Barça are down to the bare bones until January. 

In recent weeks the club have analysed the squad and have reached the conclusion that it is necessary to sign a forward who can play on either flank and, on some occasions, who could also do a role in the middle of the front three. There are few players who can take on this role -- Luis Enrique would like a winger who scores goals and can beat a man. This signing is the priority and Barça are looking at the possible options. 

Ukriane forward Yarmolenko is still on the table, although there are other similar options. They have been offered international players, but the situation is that they are only looking for a player who can provide the trident with a rest -- a younger Pedro. 

But that's not all. The club are also paying attention to various midfielders. 

This summer the club has a deal with Gundogan (Borussia Dortmund), but Luis Enrique decided to duck out of the deal at the last moment. The player will have to be a physical midfielder, but also one who is good on the ball. There are many names in the air, although the club may decide to let this one pass if there's the chance to sign a genuine crack for their midfield next summer. 

That would mean Verratti and Pogba, who continue to be priorities, but the competition in the European market is brutal and it will be tough to sign either of these players. 

At the moment, the club's scouts are brushing up on various players and decisions will begin to be taken in a few weeks. Then will come the time to negotiate and to find out if the club have the economic strength to make one or two January signings, hopefully players who would become key in the future.