Barcelona agrees to sell seven players to register Joan García and Nico Williams for the 2025/26 season
La Liga’s Financial Fair Play rules force major clear-out at Camp Nou
Barcelona are preparing to make significant moves in the transfer market to comply with La Liga’s financial fair play regulations. The club has already secured the signing of Joan García from Espanyol and is close to finalizing a deal for Nico Williams, Athletic Bilbao’s standout winger. But to register both players and potentially Xavi Simons the Catalan giants will need to make room on the books.
Seven Players Set for Exit
According to Mundo Deportivo, Barça will offload up to seven players to accommodate the new arrivals and stay within financial guidelines. The list includes:
- Marc-André ter Stegen
- Andreas Christensen
- Ansu Fati
- Pau Víctor
- Pablo Torre
- Iñaki Peña
- Oriol Romeu
None of the listed names were undisputed starters under previous coaches and are not expected to be part of Hansi Flick’s core plans for the upcoming season.
The sales are part of a broader strategy spearheaded by Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, aimed at trimming the wage bill and generating fresh income through transfers.
Ansu Fati Close to Monaco Move
Among the potential departures, Ansu Fati is reportedly the closest to sealing a transfer. Once touted as Lionel Messi’s heir at Camp Nou, the 21-year-old forward is in advanced talks with AS Monaco. Medical exams are expected in the coming days.
Other players such as Christensen, who is attracting Premier League interest, and Iñaki Peña, who is linked with clubs in La Liga may also be sold to facilitate the registrations of García, Williams, and possibly Simons.
Joan García to Take Over in Goal?
At just 24 years old, Joan García is expected to replace Ter Stegen as Barça’s new No.1. While García has limited top-flight experience, his arrival indicates that Flick is ready to make bold changes in key positions. Ter Stegen, once considered untouchable, now faces an uncertain future at the club.
Nico Williams to Star on the Left Wing
Once confirmed, Nico Williams is expected to slot directly into the starting XI. Flick’s tactical plans reportedly include shifting Raphinha into a central or right-sided attacking role, giving Nico full control of the left flank a zone where he’s thrived in both La Liga and the Spanish national team.
Financial Pressure Shaping Barça’s Future
Barcelona’s situation underscores the ongoing financial crisis at the club, despite recent revenue growth. The strict salary cap and spending limits imposed by La Liga mean that even signing promising talents requires surgical precision with player exits and wage adjustments.
The decisions taken in the coming weeks could define the next chapter in Barcelona’s rebuild, as the club tries to return to both financial health and on-pitch dominance.
