Barcelona technical secretary has made it clear that the club would not be investing in players in the upcoming month following the arrival of Jeison Murillo from Valencia on loan until the end of the season.
There have been plenty of question marks over the lack of depth in centre-back and left-back department, but the signing of Murillo must have sorted out one of the problems at Barcelona right now.
France International Samuel Umtiti’s injury length is potentially a question mark. The amount of time he will be missing the games depends on the treatment he is receiving. Should he require surgery in his knee, there is a great chance that he would be required to sit out for rest of the season.
Adrien Rabiot has been strongly linked with the Catalans over the past one year. The French midfielder has refused to accept a new contract at PSG which in turn has infuriated the club. He will not feature until the end of the season.
Eric Abidal spoke to the media “Our backing of the academy is the same and nothing changes,”
“We need to compete right now and the coach is in command here. I hope that players come through the academy as has been happening until now.”
“We are always monitoring the market. In theory, there is nothing planned in terms of arrivals.
“As for exits, there are certainly some players who will want more. Everything will be put on the table and decisions will be taken.” said Abidal.
The French International confirmed that they were interested on Rodrigo Caio when they were short of centre-backs.
The Brazilian said that Barcelona opted for Murillo when it came down to opting for a player.
“I did the medical and it was positive. They had two options: Murillo or me, and they signed him. It had already happened and by the time I left the test room, Murillo was chosen. Just knowing there is interest from them leaves me happy. It’s a sign that they’re following me and know my potential.”
Despite Murillo getting the nod above him, he thinks positively and to try and improve his football to play in Europe one day.
“Of course you get frustrated, but it’s part of football. I think positively, it has never been easy for me and it won’t be easy now. I’m staying calm and firm, knowing I have three more years on my contract at Sao Paulo. I feel calm waiting for an opportunity and one day I want to play in Europe.”
Barcelona duo Denis Suarez and Munir are being monitored by Celta Vigo who are lining up a deal to lure them to Balaidos in the upcoming transfer window, according to the Spanish publication Sport.
Besides, Unai Emery’s Arsenal are also having an eye on former Villarreal midfielder as they seek to bolster their midfield department. Any price around 20 million should be enough to wrap the signature of the Spanish International.
Barcelona will resume their La Liga campaign against Getafe on Sunday as Ernesto Valverde’s side battle out to lift consecutive league title.
