Reports indicate that many players competing in the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina have been on Barcelona’s radar for a long time.
Among the Argentinians, midfielder Giovani Lo Celso attracted the club’s interest back in 2019 while at Betis. Although he moved to Tottenham, Barcelona revisited the option of signing him in 2023. Forward Lautaro Martínez from Inter Milan was also considered a possible replacement for Luis Suárez during 2019–2021, but negotiations were stalled due to high costs.
Experienced defender Nicolás Otamendi featured in Barcelona’s plans in summer 2020 when Manchester City sought to transfer him. The move didn’t materialize as Otamendi joined Benfica instead, with Barça eventually securing Iñigo Martínez. Otamendi was reconsidered as an option for the defense in late 2025.
Centre-back Cristian Romero also attracted interest in 2022 after solid performances at Tottenham. However, the demanding price tag of €70 million prevented any deal.
Spanish players such as Alejandro Grimaldo were linked with Barcelona comeback talks in 2022–2023 as competition for Alejandro Balde, though Grimaldo went on to join Bayer Leverkusen. Midfielder Martín Zubimendi was monitored since 2022 as a potential successor to Sergio Busquets, but his €60 million release clause and Real Sociedad’s stance complicated negotiations.
Young prospect Marc Pubill was followed during the 2023–24 season after his performances with Almeria and at the Olympics. Similarly, Álex Baena from Villarreal caught Barça’s eye in 2024 as a future option.
This continued tracking of various players underscores Barcelona’s effort to reinforce the squad with both promising youngsters and experienced figures, despite current financial challenges.
