Replacements and Tough Decisions

In a dimly lit boardroom at the Camp Nou, three of FC Barcelona's most influential figures gathered for a crucial meeting. The club's sporting director Giuseppe Marotta, technical director Michael Edwards, and head coach Roberto De Zerbi sat around a sleek table, papers spread before them, each document representing a potential piece of the puzzle that could redefine Barcelona's season. With the transfer window rapidly closing, there was a sense of urgency in the room. Decisions had to be made, and every move was critical.

After the last meeting between Alex and coach Roberto De Zerbi, the president set up the transfer committee to discuss potential signings of Laporte and Baena, and further more to discuss potential alternatives to the targets as the transfer window closes in about less than a week. 

The topic of the day was clear: the sales of Miralem Pjanic and Sergi Roberto were looming, and replacements were needed. De Zerbi had made his tactical vision known, and Marotta and Edwards were tasked with finding players who fit the profile while staying within the club's constrained budget. Barcelona's financial troubles were no secret, and each move had to be meticulously calculated, as recent deals with Nike and Tesla wont reflect in this year's revenue. 

 Miralem Pjanic and Sergi Roberto: Offers on the Table

The discussions began with the latest updates on Pjanic and Roberto. Both players had fallen down the pecking order under De Zerbi, who was unyielding in his pursuit of a team that could execute his high-intensity, possession-based style. 

Pjanic: Several offers had come in for Pjanic, but the most concrete was from a mid-tier Premier League club (Newcastle) offering €30 million. It was a tempting figure, especially considering the player's inconsistency and the need to raise funds. However, Pjanic departure would leave a gap in the squad's attacking options, particularly on the wings.

Roberto: For Roberto, the situation was slightly less advanced. An offer of €25 million had come in from a Serie A side and Girona with both clubs looking to bolster their defense. Roberto's market value wasn't as high as Roberto's, but the deal was appealing given the limited game time he had seen under De Zerbi. The coach was open to letting Roberto leave, emphasizing the need for a more reliable and commanding presence in defense. 

"Both offers are reasonable," Marotta said, adjusting his glasses as he scanned the details of the bids. "But we must move quickly in getting better deals for the players and if we are to reinvest these funds." 

Edwards nodded in agreement. "The market is tight, and prices are inflated. We need to be smart—find value without compromising on quality."

De Zerbi leaned back, crossing his arms thoughtfully. "There are a few players who have not adapted to the tactical demands. They are good players, but not the right fit for what we are trying to build."

He listed names: Pjanic and Roberto were at the top, but others had also struggled to cement their spots. There were also questions around some of the squad's depth players—those who weren't meeting the high standards set by the coaching staff.

Marotta and Edwards took notes, understanding that reducing the squad size could free up additional wages and funds for new signings. It was a delicate balance of letting go without leaving the squad vulnerable. 

With the outgoing players identified, the focus shifted to potential replacements. Edwards had provided a wish list: players who were young, versatile, and could adapt to multiple positions without breaking the bank for the coaches preferred signings.

For Miralem Pjanic:

Armand Laurienté (Sassuolo): A dynamic winger with pace and a knack for taking on defenders. Laurienté had impressed in Serie A and was viewed as a budget-friendly option who could grow under De Zerbi's system. His price tag was around €20 million, making him a viable target.

Alex Baena (Villareal): The Spanish winger had caught the eye with his explosive speed and ability to play on either flank. His valuation was slightly higher, closer to €25 million, but Edwards noted that a structured deal with performance bonuses could bring the fee within reach.

Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao): Nico was another name on the list, but his club's reluctance to sell and the potential high release clause posed challenges. Nonetheless, De Zerbi was intrigued by his direct style and ability to disrupt defenses. 

For Sergi Roberto:

Evan Ndicka (Frankfurt): A strong, left-footed defender who had quietly impressed in the Europa League and Bundesliga. His physical presence and ball-playing ability made him a suitable candidate, and would come cheap due to him being in the final year of his current contract and reports says he's unwilling to commit to Frankfurt's offers, he was a realistic target within Barcelona's financial constraints.

Josip Sutalo (Dinamo Zagreb): A younger option with potential, Sutalo was adept at reading the game and was comfortable on the ball. He was less experienced than other targets but offered a cost-effective solution at around €12 million.

Robin Le Normand (Real Sociedad): Known for his consistency and tactical intelligence, Le Normand was a more established option. However, his price tag was around €30 million, stretching the budget, but his immediate impact was tempting and his experience with the Spanish league.

De Zerbi reviewed the profiles, his mind racing with possibilities. "We need players who are hungry and ready to prove themselves. They must fit into our system, but also bring something extra—a spark that can change games."

Marotta chimed in, "We also have to consider the market dynamics. We can't afford to wait too long, or we'll be priced out in an eventual price war."

Edwards leaned forward, pointing to Baena and Ndicka. "These two stand out as immediate fits within our budget. Both have the potential to grow and can be signed without jeopardizing our financial stability." 

De Zerbi nodded. "Let's push for Baena and Ndicka. They're not just replacements; they're upgrades that align with where we want to go." 

The decision was made, but the clock was ticking. Marotta and Edwards immediately set to work, reaching out to the agents and clubs to accelerate negotiations. Time was of the essence, and every minute counted as the transfer window neared its dramatic conclusion. 

As the final week of the transfer window unfolded, Barcelona moved swiftly. The deals for Miralem Pjanic and Sergi Roberto were finalized, bringing in a combined €58 million with Pjanic deal being done for €35 million (€30m plus add-ons) while Roberto's deal was for €23 million with him moving to La Galaxy. This injection of funds allowed Marotta and Edwards to press ahead with the signings of Baena and Ndicka.

Both transfers were agreed upon in principle, with final details being ironed out. De Zerbi, despite the chaos of the transfer window, remained focused on his preparations for the opening match. The additions of Baena and Ndicka represented more than just new faces—they were symbols of a strategic shift, a commitment to rebuilding Barcelona not just as a club, but as a force to be reckoned with in European football.

The boardroom buzzed with activity as the clock ticked down, emails flying back and forth, phones ringing incessantly. As the deals were sealed, there was a collective sigh of relief. It wasn't just about making transfers; it was about making the right ones. The trio knew that the road ahead was long, but with each step, they were closer to bringing Barcelona back to the summit of football.

De Zerbi, Marotta, and Edwards shared a final glance, a silent acknowledgment of the work that had been done and the challenges still to come. The window was closing, but for Barcelona, the door to a new era was just beginning to open.