CORNERFLICK
Barcelona have managed a busy summer transfer window despite their financial restrictions, using a mix of borrowing, player sales and lower wage costs to create room for new signings.
Loan and sales drive the budget
A key part of the plan has been a €210 million loan, which will be paid in two stages and has given the club scope to spend while still keeping within the 1:1 rule.
Player sales have also mattered. The move of Fran Torres to Paris Saint-Germain for €50 million was one of the club’s biggest deals of the summer, while the exits of Ansu Fati, Iñaki Peña and others have lifted Barcelona’s income from departures to about €70 million.
That figure could rise further. The sale of Ttami Marks to Braga for €10 million is close to being completed, Barcelona expect €10 million to €15 million for Héctor Fort, and Casado could yet leave for around €30 million.
Lower wages have helped too
Barcelona have also reduced salary costs by moving players on and trimming contracts. The departures of Fran Torres and Ansu Fati have freed up around €32 million in fair-play room, according to the source material.
A new deal for Christensen on lower pay and Marc-André ter Stegen’s loan move have helped as well. New arrivals such as Gordon, Adimi and especially Rodri will still add major cost, but the club’s summer is described as relatively successful.