The summer of 2026 finds Barcelona balancing transfer market activity and preseason preparations. Central to the club’s focus is the anticipated official presentation of forward Karim Adeyemi, marking the culmination of a significant transfer. Meanwhile, the club reevaluates its approach to signing a center-back, reflecting strategic adjustments.
Injuries and departures such as Frenkie de Jong’s knee issue and Robert Lewandowski’s exit shape squad decisions. Barcelona aims to strengthen multiple areas while nurturing young talent to maintain depth and competitiveness.
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Transfers and Attacking Strengthening
Barcelona is close to completing the signing of 24-year-old forward Karim Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund for around €22 million. Adeyemi is set for his official Barcelona presentation on Thursday, July 23, with administrative steps remaining. Barcelona has been negotiating for several months to sign Julián Álvarez as a key replacement for Robert Lewandowski. Dusan Vlahovic, considered a backup option forward, may leave the club this summer due to increasing impatience. Barcelona faces the challenge of replacing Lewandowski with multiple forwards, as Fisnik Asllani nears a move to RB Leipzig.
Defensive Situation
Barcelona continues scouting experienced center-back Aymeric Laporte, though the transfer remains unlikely. FC Barcelona opts against signing a new center-back this summer, reflecting a strategic decision.
Injuries and Player Fitness
Frenkie de Jong suffered a knee injury sidelining him for 3-4 months, but club plans to move Marc Casado remain unchanged. Alejandro Balde missed a group training session but follows an individual plan with no injury issues.
Young Talents and Prospects
Ibrahim Diarra was given a fresh chance to prove himself in the first team during the 2027/28 preseason. Barcelona’s women’s team officially signed defender Renee van Asten from Ajax’s academy as the first reinforcement for 2027/28.
Other News
Pau Cubarsi emerged as one of the 2026 World Cup revelations, playing all minutes for Spain but was omitted from FIFA’s Dream XI. Ines Garcia, girlfriend of young talent Lamin Yamal, faced social media abuse after the Spain World Cup celebrations. Barcelona is close to agreement with Al Ahly to face them in the 2026 Joan Gamper Trophy on August 19 at Spotify Camp Nou.
