Cash-strapped Barcelona to sell quarter of stars after Raphinha’s deal

After signing winger Raphinha from Leeds United, it is said that Barcelona is trying to sell a quarter of its first-team players.

After a three-way battle with London’s Chelsea and Arsenal, Barca prevailed to sign the Brazilian attacker for an initial £49 million sum plus an additional £8 million in add-ons.

On a positive note for the struggling LaLiga team, the president of the Catalan club also confirmed that Barca and Ousmane Dembele have reached an agreement about a new contract.

But some players will have to depart in order to retain the services of the two wingers for the upcoming season and beyond.

Barcelona will also consider bids for Memphis Depay, Samuel Umtiti, Martin Braithwaite, and Neto, according to Sport.

Barca has pulled a “second economic lever” in an effort to balance their budget despite having massive debts. They achieved this by giving US investment firm Sixth Street a portion of their future TV rights.

However, athletes who were not anticipated to be consistent starters are now viewed as disposable.

Rey Manaj has joined Watford, club veteran Dani Alves has left for a second time, and Philippe Coutinho has already been sold to Aston Villa.

Also on loan to Tottenham and Sporting, respectively, were Clement Lenglet and Francisco Trincao.