FC Barcelona are once again at the center of transfer speculation, with French attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki emerging as the latest name linked with a move to Catalonia. Our analysis of the past seven days shows the club has been tied to 26 possible arrivals and 10 potential exits. The hottest storyline right now revolves around Manchester City's Erling Haaland, but several other key targets feature in the latest news, which we round up below.
Rayan Cherki
On Wednesday, it was reported that Barcelona have monitored French attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki in recent weeks, with their observation intensifying due to developments in Manchester City's financial situation. Real Madrid has also been watching the 23-year-old under the same circumstances, and a potential transfer is dependent on whether City is forced to sell players. If Cherki were to become available, several other major European clubs are reportedly interested. According to sources, Paris Saint-Germain is a likely destination, while long-term admirers Liverpool and Arsenal would almost certainly renew their interest. Some reports have also connected Bayern Munich with the player, who is contracted to Manchester City until June 2030.
Iván Fresneda
FC Barcelona's Sporting Director, Deco, is planning a renewed attempt to sign 22-year-old Spanish right-back Iván Fresneda in January, according to a report on Wednesday. He currently plays for Sporting Lissabon, which is looking to extend his contract that runs until 2028 and contains an 80 million euro release clause. Fresneda, who was also linked with Real Madrid in the summer, almost joined the Catalan club three years ago.
Erling Haaland
On Wednesday, it was noted that Erling Haaland has previously stated he has no intention of playing in the Championship, and Barcelona's executives would seriously pursue the striker in the event of Manchester City being relegated. Journalists from Marca have analyzed his potential fit, while the data platform SciSports found Barcelona to be the most compatible team for him with a score of 80 points, though all reports are considered speculative. A day earlier, on Tuesday, it was reported that several major European clubs are prepared to pursue the 26-year-old if City are relegated. Manchester City reportedly believe it would be inconceivable for Haaland to remain in that scenario but would not have to sell him at a reduced price due to his long-term contract, which runs until 2034.
Estêvão
Chelsea considers Estevão a player they are unwilling to sell, and football.london understands that a potential exit for the player in 2027 is unlikely as of Tuesday. A day earlier, on Monday, SPORT reported that FC Barcelona is closely monitoring his situation at Chelsea, where he has reportedly grown frustrated with a lack of playing time. While a departure is not currently being considered, the report states this could change if he does not receive more opportunities.
Aymeric Laporte
If Barcelona decides to target an experienced player, Hansi Flick's first choice would reportedly be Aymeric Laporte, according to a report on Monday. He is considered more suitable for the project than Virgil van Dijk.
Alessandro Bastoni
Tuttomercato reported on Monday that Barcelona is interested in Alessandro Bastoni as a potential defensive reinforcement. The club's manager, Hansi Flick, is reportedly following Bastoni, who fits the younger profile he would prefer for the defence over Virgil van Dijk.
Tyrick Mitchell
According to a SPORT report on Monday, strengthening the left-back position is a priority for Barcelona ahead of next summer. The report adds that RB Leipzig’s David Raum and Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell will be targets if they allow their current contracts to expire.
For all the latest news, check our FC Barcelona page.
