Valverde makes the decisions. He knows what's at stake

Valverde has arrived and the first decisions are now being taken. Some are unexpected, like the decision not to pursue Bellerín, when the full back had been a priority in recent months. The manager, helped by the club’s sporting directors, has gone onto the attack. He knows it’s time to add to a squad that requires a few added dashes of quality if it wants to progress. And Valverde is the person most interested in moving forward transfer options so he can start to work with the players who must win titles for the club in this new project. But it’s clear there’s work to be done. No one will be waited for, nor will excessive prices be paid… With one exception, Verratti – a player special enough that he will be pursued until the end of August. Whatever it costs.

Barça won’t sign. Just freshen up. The manager is clear that there’s enough quality to fight for the triple toe-to-toe with the best in Europe. And the additions must be definite starters or versatile players who will help the group. The first group includes a right back, which won’t be Bellerín. It has been a problem position since last season but the €40 million demanded by Arsenal rule out signing the Catalan. These prices are only paid for more attacking and creative players. Barça want a full back with international experience, who can attack and does not cost more than €30 million. Such players are on the market and there will be movement in the next few days. Paulinho is one such player that is being tracked and everything is dependent on Verratti. Or rather PSG.