Barcelona is facing a series of challenges as the year comes to an end, and their issues are not limited to performance on the field. After a disappointing run of results, dropping 16 points from their last seven matches and falling to third in La Liga, the club now faces mounting concerns regarding player transfers and financial difficulties.
One of the pressing matters is the registration of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, whose contracts have yet to be officially registered due to Barcelona’s ongoing financial fair play (FFP) issues. The club had hoped a new sponsorship deal with Nike would resolve the situation and bring them in line with the 1:1 financial rule, but this has yet to materialize. As a result, they have had to take legal action to register the two players, which complicates their plans for the upcoming transfer window.
This financial dilemma has forced Barcelona to reconsider any moves in the January transfer market. Despite the club’s need for reinforcements, particularly in full-back positions or a winger, they are unlikely to sign any new players due to FFP constraints. The club’s sporting management is focused on resolving the current situation without further additions.
The main obstacle, however, remains the financial fair play issue. The club is struggling to solve the registration of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor, and this presents an even larger concern for Barcelona as Olmo could become available for free in the market. Pep Guardiola and Manchester City have long shown interest in the Spanish midfielder, and with City’s current midfield struggles, Barcelona fears they may lose Olmo to their rivals if the registration problem persists.
Barcelona’s sporting management has also ruled out any player exits in January. They believe the squad is already thin and do not want to part with anyone unless a significant offer comes in. However, this is unlikely unless a major deal arises. If any player does leave, Barcelona would need to bring in a replacement, but their financial limitations make this difficult.
Furthermore, the 1:1 rule further restricts Barcelona’s ability to operate in the market. This rule prevents them from reinvesting the full amount received from player sales, meaning they can only reinvest half—or even less—of the funds. This makes any significant player acquisition nearly impossible, leaving Barcelona with little flexibility in the transfer market.
As a result, Barcelona will have to continue with the current squad for the remainder of the season. While this situation is far from ideal, both sporting director Deco and coach Xavi do not consider it a catastrophe, though it is clear they would prefer reinforcements in certain positions.
