Story perspectives

Barcelona to Sell Ferran Torres, Pursue New Striker

3/24/2026

Summary

Barcelona Revamps Attack

FC Barcelona plans to sell Ferran Torres (FC Barcelona) this summer to revamp their attack.
Torres is under contract until 2027 and has scored only three goals in 2026.
Barcelona aims to sign Julián Álvarez as the starting striker and keep Marcus Rashford.
Barcelona's sporting director is pursuing these potential signings, including Benfica's Andreas Schjelderup, as the club weighs alternatives amid financial constraints.

Summary

Bartomeu Defends Messi

Josep Bartomeu, the former FC Barcelona president, criticizes the current administration's handling of financial fair play and the Negreira refereeing scandal.
He says the club's financial issues stem from the pandemic's impact, not mismanagement.
Bartomeu defends Lionel Messi (the footballer), stating Messi had no influence over signings or coaching decisions.
He notes Messi's departure resulted from contractual obligations, not poor relations, and cites pre-pandemic growth.

History

Historical Context

FC Barcelona's financial troubles intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, culminating in a €97 million loss for the 2020-21 season. Under president Josep Bartomeu, the club faced criticism for its management decisions. As of 2023, Barcelona continues to grapple with financial constraints, impacting player transfers and competitiveness, while navigating the ongoing Negreira corruption investigation linked to payments made from 2001 to 2018.

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Barcelona Revamps Attack

FC Barcelona plans to sell Ferran Torres (FC Barcelona) this summer to revamp their attack.
Torres is under contract until 2027 and has scored only three goals in 2026.
Barcelona aims to sign Julián Álvarez as the starting striker and keep Marcus Rashford.
Barcelona's sporting director is pursuing these potential signings, including Benfica's Andreas Schjelderup, as the club weighs alternatives amid financial constraints.

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