Barcelona set clear guidelines for new defender signing | OneFootball

Barcelona have plans to add to the two signings (Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi) already made this summer. They are still primarily focused on bringing in a new number nine to replace Robert Lewandowski, while there could be at least two defenders sought – although that will depend on certain circumstances.

Barcelona are said to be closing in on the permanent signing of Joao Cancelo, who impressed on loan from Al Hilal during the second half of last season. An agreement is almost in place with the Saudi Pro League side, and once it’s done, it will allow the club to put more focus on to the possible addition of a central defender.

In the last few weeks, Barcelona have stepped up efforts to add another central defender into the mix, although Diario AS say that a new signing will only arrive if someone leaves – and that someone would be Ronald Araujo. The Catalans have made it clear that no signings are possible unless their captain departs, which is someone they are keen to happen before the transfer window closes at the end of August.

Barcelona want veteran profile to replace Araujo

In the event that Araujo does leave, Barcelona have established the exact profile they would want his replacement to fall into. The priority would be to incorporate a proven defender, with experience in elite football, while the preference is also for him to be left-footed, and all of this makes Aymeric Laporte an ideal fit.

In the last seven days, Barcelona have established Laporte as a leading target, although it will not be easy to tempt him to join. Athletic Club will not negotiate with the Catalan club, which is to be expected given the two institutions’ poor relations, while .